write book in essay

Writing A Book Title In Your Essay – The Right Way

Table of contents

• 1 APA Style: How to Write Book Titles in Essays
• 2 APA Style Essay: Writing The Name of The Author
• 3 MLA Style Essay: Citing a Book Title
• 4 Chicago Style Essay: Writing the Book Title
• 5 Writing Various Types of Titles
• 6 Should We Underline or Italicize Book Titles?

When you are writing an academic essay , the book title and author’s name should be written in italics. However, if the book title is part of a larger work (such as a journal article), it should be underlined instead. So, you’re wondering how to write a book title in an essay?

Writing an essay with a book title can be tricky, particularly because each style guide has its own formatting rules for including titles in the main text. Whether you are using MLA, APA, Chicago, or Harvard referencing styles, you will need to consider how to properly format the book title. For more complicated literature-based assignments, seeking assistance from an admission essay writing service may be wise, as they specialize in writing essays that incorporate academic sources.

In this article, we will explore how to write both titles in an essay properly so that you avoid any mistakes!

APA Style: How to Write Book Titles in Essays

When writing an essay, you must follow the style guide provided by your professor. Some teachers may require you to use APA style and others MLA style. There are some rules on how to quote a book title in an essay. You should use italics and quotation marks when writing book titles in essays. For example: “ The Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War II. “

When writing a book title in APA Style , you should be aware of these rules:

Write the book title in italics and place it after the author’s name, which is presented in reverse order (last name first).

Use quotation marks around the headline of a chapter or article.

Capitalize proper names that are not common nouns (names of people, places, organizations), but do not capitalize words such as “and,” “or,” “to,” or “and/or.”

Do not capitalize prepositions that appear at the beginning of titles if they are followed by an article (e.g., “A,” “An”), but do capitalize prepositions at the beginning of titles if they are not followed by articles (“Of”).

The first word of the headline should be capitalized, as well as any other words after a colon or hyphen. For example, “The Elements of Style: Grammar for Everyone”  or “Theories of Personality: Critical Perspectives.”

Capitalize proper names and words derived from them (e.g., the names of people, places, organizations), except proper nouns used generically (e.g., ‘a bed’).

APA Style Essay: Writing The Name of The Author

You should always use the full name and surname of the author in your APA essay because this will give proper credit to the writer. If you do not mention the author’s full name, people may not know who wrote what and will think you copied it from somewhere else. This will cause lots of problems for you and your reputation as well.

Make sure that all authors’ names appear in the same format in each entry. For example, if one person’s surname is Smith and another’s is Jones, both have first names starting with “J.” It may seem like they are being cited as different people when they’re actually written differently from each other on separate pages in your paper.

To write an APA essay without any issues, there are certain rules that you need to follow while writing an author’s name in APA essay:

• Use only one author’s name in your paper unless there are multiple authors
• If there are multiple authors, then use both their last names followed by the initials of their first names
• Only use initials of first names when there are three or more authors; otherwise, use full names with their last names

Example: Johnson, M.C., Carlson, M., Smith, J. N., & Hanover, L. E.

MLA Style Essay: Citing a Book Title

Now let’s discuss how to mention a book in an essay. The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th edition, published by the Modern Language Association (2014), contains detailed rules about how to cite a book title in an essay.

The following guidelines will instruct you on how to refer to a book in an essay in MLA style :

• List your sources at the end of your paper, before the works cited page or bibliography.
• Use italics for titles of books, magazines, and newspapers, but not for articles within those publications, which should be placed in quotation marks.
• Include all relevant book information under two categories: “title” and “author.” In the former category, include the work’s title and its subtitle if there is one; do this even if neither appears on your title page (see below). In the latter category, include only primary authors who have written or edited an entire book; if there are multiple contributors, you should cite them separately under each.

The general format for citing the title of the book in an essay is as follows:

Author’s last name, first initial (Date). Title of Book with Subtitle if there is one. Publisher Name/Location of Publisher; Year Published

Chicago Style Essay: Writing the Book Title

One of the most important things to remember when writing in Chicago style is how to write the title of a book in an essay. To write a good book title in an essay, you should follow these steps:

• Write it at the beginning of your sentence.
• Capitalize it just like any other noun or proper noun.
• Put a comma after the title unless it’s an introductory clause or phrase. For example: “The Firm,” by John Grisham (not “by”) and “The Catcher in the Rye,” by J.D Salinger (not “and”).
• In addition to the book’s name, punctuation marks should also be italicized.

For example: Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince: Children’s Edition

Writing Various Types of Titles

Now that we covered how to write a book title and author in an essay, it’s time to look at some different types of titles. When you write a book title in an essay, several things must be considered. Whether it’s a book, series, chapter title, editor’s name, or author’s name, how you write it depends on where it appears in your paper.

Here are some key rules for writing headings for novels:

•  Use capital letters to write the title of the novel. For example,  The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett .
• Use italics and capital letters to write the name of the author and his/her other works mentioned in a book title—for example,  Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice (1813) .

You should use quotation marks when writing headings of short title poems, articles, and stories.

However, before deciding which format to use, it is important to understand the main idea you want to express in your essay. Additionally, you could use essay papers for sale to help you accomplish your goal of writing an essay effectively.

Should We Underline or Italicize Book Titles?

It depends on which style guide you use. The Modern Language Association and Chicago Manual of Style both suggest using italics, while the American Psychological Association suggests using quotation marks with a few exceptions.

The way you write the title of a book in an essay is different depending on the instructions you were given. For example, if you’re writing an essay in APA style, use quotation marks around the book’s name. If you’re writing for MLA or Chicago style , however, italicize the book’s name instead. If you’re writing a handwritten essay instead of using a computer, capitalize and underline the book’s name.

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How to Write a Book Title in an Essay (MLA, APA etc.)

Formatting your essay correctly ensures that you get full recognition for the hard work you put into it. Wondering what to do? There are two scenarios that lead you to the question of "how to write a book title in an essay":

• You have not been required to use a particular style guide, in which case consistency remains important.
• You have been instructed to use a particular style guide. You now simply need to ensure that you are familiar with its rules.

Regardless of which of these scenarios holds true for you, this guide is here to help.

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay

Many style manuals call on writers use title case and italics to format a book title. Title case rules vary slightly from one style guide to the next, but generally capitalize all important words — nouns, pronouns, verbs, and adverbs. Conjunctions and prepositions are not capitalized unless they are very long (generally more than four letters) or they appear at the beginning or end of a book title.

Writers who are not required to work with a specific style manual can't go wrong if they stick to this style. Some examples would be:

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Gift of Fear and Other Survival Signals That Protect us From Violence by Gavin de Becker
• The Cat With a Feathery Tail and Other Stories by Enid Blyton

If, on the other hand, you're required to use a style guide, it will likely be one of these:

• MLA, commonly used in disciplines relating to literature and social sciences.
• APA, commonly used in psychology and other sciences.
• Chicago, often used in the publishing industry.
• Harvard style, commonly used in philosophy and social sciences.

These are certainly not the only "big players" in the style guide world, but they're ones it's good to be familiar with. There is overlap between these styles, but there are also major differences — so knowing one definitely does not mean you know the others, too.

Guidelines for Writing a Book Title in an Essay

Looking for a short and sharp answer, so you can get on with the rest of your essay? This is it.

This quick guide will help you reference the book title of your choosing in the body of your essay, but what about your Works Cited pages? Each style guide offers different rules, and we'll use the same book as an example to illustrate the differences.

• MLA uses the following format: Author Last Name, First Name. Title of Book . City of Publication, Publisher, Publication Year. Example: Card, Orson Scott. Ender's Game. Tor Books, 1985. (You only have to detail the city of publication if the book was published before 1900, the publisher has offices in many localities, or the publisher is not known in the US.)
• APA uses the following format: Author Last Name, First Name. (Year of Publication). Title of book. Example: Card, Orson Scott. (1985). Ender's game.
• Chicago style uses the following format: Author Last Name, First Name. Book Title: Subtitle . Place of publication: Publisher, Year. Example: Card, Orson Scott. Ender's Game . Tor Books, 1985.
• Harvard uses the following format: Author Last Name, First Initial. (Publication Year). Title . ed. City: Publisher. Example: Card, O. (1985). Ender's Game. Tor Books.

If, after researching, you cannot find relevant information about publication years, publishers, or the city in which a book was published, you may omit it. For a full guide, it is always best to have a physical copy of the latest edition of the style manual you are using. You can, however, get by without this if you need to.

Should you still not know what to do, it will be helpful for you to know that you can "generate" citations for a particular style manual with the help of online tools like Cite Me . These are not always accurate, so if you decide to use one, always check the citation manually.

Why Is Proper Formatting Important?

All of the well-known style manuals ultimately serve the very same set of purposes, although they were each developed for a particular niche. The goals of these style manuals are both explicit and implicit:

• Following a style guide ensures consistency throughout a document, in this case an essay.
• Consistency ensures that reader's understand precisely what the writer is talking about, without exerting any effort on figuring that out. Clarity is especially important in academic writing.
• By using a style guide within a certain discipline, you show that you understand the rules within that discipline. This adds credibility to your voice as a writer. You have done your homework, have ideally bought the style manual, and are part of the "in group".
• Sticking to a certain style guide makes it easier for relevant parties to check your references, which they can then use to perform further research.

Students are increasingly asked to refer to style guides at all levels, including in high school. In this case, formatting your essay correctly, in accordance with the right style manual, serves two additional purposes:

• You'll lose points if you don't do it right, offering you an additional reason to do your research.
• Getting used to these formats prepares you for further education. If you are in high school, it prepares you for college-level writing. If you are an undergraduate student, it prepares you for academic work at the graduate and post-graduate levels.

Can you start an essay with a book title?

Yes, you can start an essay with a book title. This is a valid stylistic choice, but you will always want to consider your introduction carefully.

How do you write a book title in handwriting?

Students sometimes ask whether it is acceptable to underline book titles instead of italicizing them. This practice indeed stems from a time in which most students wrote their essays by hand. Although it has largely fallen out of practice now, you can still underline a book title if you are handwriting your essay.

How do you write a book title and chapter in an essay?

You should mention the chapter title first: "Rat" from Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card. Consult the relevant style manual to ensure you get the formatting right.

Can you shorten a book title in an essay?

Yes, you can. Reference the full title the first time you mention it (for example: Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things ). The next time you mention the book, you may simply refer to Furiously Happy .

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• Someone Walked Over My Grave - Meaning and Origin
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• Writing Tips

How to Write Book Titles in Your Essays

3-minute read

• 26th May 2023

When writing an essay, you’re likely to mention other authors’ works, such as books, papers, and articles. Formatting the titles of these works usually involves using quotation marks or italics.

So how do you write a book title in an essay? Most style guides have a standard for this – be sure to check that first. If you’re unsure, though, check out our guide below.

Italics or Quotation Marks?

As a general rule, you should set titles of longer works in italics , and titles of shorter works go in quotation marks . Longer works include books, journals, TV shows, albums, plays, etc. Here’s an example of a book mention:

Shorter works include poems, articles, chapters of books, episodes of TV shows, songs, etc. If it’s a piece that’s part of a biggHow to Write Book Titles in Your Essayser work, the piece considered a short work:

Exceptions to the Rule

The rule for writing book titles in italics applies specifically to running text . If the book title is standing on its own, as in a heading, there’s no need to italicize it.

Additionally, if the book is part of a larger series and you’re mentioning both the title of the series and that of the individual book, you can consider the book a shorter work. You would set the title of the series in italics and place the book title in quotation marks:

Punctuation in Book Titles

Do you need to apply italics to the punctuation in a book title? The short answer is yes – but only if the punctuation is part of the title:

If the punctuation isn’t part of the title (i.e., the punctuation is part of the sentence containing the title), you shouldn’t include in the italics:

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Summary: Writing Book Titles in Essays

We hope you’ll now feel confident when you’re writing and formatting book titles in your essays. Generally, you should set the title in italics when it’s in running text. Remember, though, to check your style guide. While the standards we’ve covered are the most common, some style guides have different requirements.

And once you finish writing your paper, make sure you send it our way! We’ll make sure any titles are formatted correctly as well as checking your work for grammar, spelling, punctuation, referencing, and more. Submit a free sample to try our service today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you write the title of a book in a sentence.

Set the title of the book in italics unless the book is part of a larger work (e.g., a book that’s part of a series):

When do you use quotation marks for titles?

Place titles of shorter works or pieces that are contained in a larger work in quotation marks:

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How To Write Book Titles The Proper Way: A Complete Guide For Writers

• February 10, 2022

Book titles within essays or papers can be tricky. There are specific rules that are given for how to include a book title in a way that sets it apart from the content of your writing given by the Modern Language Association. However, as with many other things in life, there are exceptions to the rules. This article will guide you through the rules of the writing style guides so that you can include a book’s title in your paper or essay correctly.

How to write book titles:

Style guides and book titles.

When it comes to book titles within text, there are a few different style guides that have rules you can follow, depending on your writing type. The three types that you will encounter most often are; MLA style, Chicago manual of style, and APA. A writing instructor will usually tell you what style guide you are expected to use for a particular essay or paper.

MLA Style Guide

The MLA handbook states that you should always italicize book titles when styling book titles within your text. The exception to this rule are religious texts. You would not italicize the Holy Bible or the sacred books or titles of other religions. Note the following example.

Pam had stayed most of the summer indoors, re-reading her favorite book series. She was already up to  Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , and she didn’t regret not being more active or going outside.

In the above example, the book title is italicized. Fiction titles and nonfiction titles alike must be in italics when within the text.

Series Titles in MLA

In the above example, a book from a series was used. But what if the text had not specified which book from the series Pam was reading? Would it still need to be in italics? The answer is: in this case, yes. In other cases, sometimes.

It’s really not as confusing as it seems. When you are talking about a book series but don’t want or need to include the complete series titles for the purposes of your work, you only have to put words in italics that also appear in the book titles. So, because  Harry Potter  is part of the title of all of the books in the series, you would italicize his name every time you mention the book.

However, if you were talking about Katniss Everdeen, you would not have to do this, as the book series she is featured in doesn’t use her name in the titles of  The Hunger Games  series. The same would be true of books like the Nancy Drew books.

Quotation Marks

There are instances in which titles should be placed inside of quotation marks within a paper or essay. This is done when you cite the titles of poems , a chapter title, short stories, articles, or blogs.

So, for example, if you were to write a paper that featured a poem from a book, you would put the book title in italics and the poems cited in quotation marks.

An example of an enduring love poem is “Annabel Lee” from  The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe. 

Chapter Title

Another time that quotation marks should be used is when using the title of a chapter. If you are citing a specific chapter of a book, you would enclose the title of the chapter in quotation marks, and the title of the book should be in italics.

The desperation and sadness of a man on death row can be seen in the “Wild Wind Blowing” chapter of Norman Mailer’s  The Executioner’s Song. 

Short Stories

Short stories are another case. Much like the title of a chapter or poem, in which the title is placed in quotation marks, while the title of the book or collection it is found in is italics. The same can be said for sections, stories, or chapters cited within a literary journal.

Stepping away from his norm of horror and gore, Stephen King writes of trust, love, and regret in his story “The Last Rung on the Ladder,” which can be found in his short story collection  Night Shift. 

Punctuation Marks

If you are citing a story or title that includes question marks, you need to make sure to italicize the question mark when citing. Keep all punctuation, such as a question mark, comma, ellipses, colon, or exclamation mark, as it is in the original individual books.

If you want a funny and irreverent read, you’ve got to try  Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea.  Chelsea Handler has done a phenomenal job of being vulgar, relatable, and explaining life from her viewpoint in this hilarious and memorable book.

The Digital Age: Are Book Titles Underlined Anymore?

MLA style used to dictate that a book title should either be in italics or underlined. However, that is no longer the case. As computers started to take over as the major tool used in writing, it became unpopular to underline book titles. Therefore, this rule was dropped from the style guides.

However, it should be mentioned that when handwriting an essay or research paper, many instructors prefer that you underline book titles, as it’s relatively difficult to handwrite italics. If you are in a writing course or a class that is heavy on handwritten work, be sure to ask your instructor or teacher which method they prefer for citing a book title.

How to Come Up with Book Title Ideas

Now that quotation marks, italics, and style guides have been discussed, let’s move on to how you can come up with your own book title. If you’d like a title for your book that sounds interesting and will get a reader’s attention, you may find this article helpful.

Coming up with a good title for your book is a challenging yet essential marketing decision . The right title can make your target audience choose your new book off of the shelf instead of another writer’s work. Your book cover and your book title are quite possibly the most important marketing decisions you will make.

How to Choose a Good Book Title

Certain criteria should be met if you want to have a good book title , and there are specific steps involved in getting there. You may have assumed up until now that titles of books were just spur of the moment decisions made by authors or publishers, but a lot of work goes into writing good titles.

Grab the Reader’s Attention

As a general rule, you want your reader to remember your title and to sound interesting, even without the reader having seen the cover. There are several ways to do this. You can be a little dark with your title, be controversial, provoke the reader, or even be funny.

There are many examples of such works that use memorable and attention-seeking titles. The following are some different titles that are effective and would most likely provoke a reader to grab them from a shelf for closer inspection.

• Burn After Writing (Sharon Jones)
• Love in the Time of Cholera (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
• Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (Mindy Kaling)
• Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea (Chelsea Handler)
• The Devil Wears Prada (Lauren Weisberger)
• Chicken Soup for the Soul (various authors)
• God Bless You, Dr. Kevorkian (Kurt Vonnegut)

Shorter Titles

If your full title for your book is long, you may end up boring a reader or creating a situation where a reader tries to remember the title of your book, but it’s too long and ends up getting it confused with another book. Although you should always do your best to make sure that there aren’t books by other authors that share a title or have a title similar to your book (more on that in a minute), you don’t want a person to get confused and get the wrong book instead.

Research Your Title Ideas

It’s a good idea to take the titles you have considered for your book and make a list. Then, do your homework. You can use tools like Google Adwords to test out your title to see if there are others like it, or you can simply use any search engine and plug your title ideas into the search bar and see what similar or exact titles of the same words pop up.

Readers are generally busy people. They don’t have the time or the energy to ensure that writers get a title right. They’ll look for the book they are interested in, and if it proves to be too difficult, or if there are other books written that have the same title, they’ll move on to something else.

A writer really has to make sure that they have a title that isn’t going to be ignored, is interesting, isn’t too long, and isn’t too similar to other works.

The same goes for titles of short works within a larger body of work. Short works, like poems or stories, need to have unique titles as well when included in a larger body of work, such as a collection. If stories are similar in nature, be sure to title them differently so that readers will be able to tell them apart, as well.

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How to Write a Book Title in an Essay in MLA & APA Styles

Learn how to properly cite book titles in your essays using MLA & APA styles. Discover guidelines for writing book titles in essays with ease.

Rijvi Ahmed

Last updated on Mar 14th, 2024

When you click on affiliate links on QuillMuse.com and make a purchase, you won’t pay a penny more, but we’ll get a small commission—this helps us keep up with publishing valuable content on QuillMuse.  Read More .

Table of Contents

In academic writing, attention to detail is paramount, especially when it comes to writing essays. An often overlooked aspect is how to properly incorporate book titles into text, a seemingly simple thing that can lead to confusion if the task is not done properly.

Whether you follow the Modern Language Association (MLA) or American Psychological Association (APA) approach, an understanding of how to write a book title and how a book’s title is structured is essential to the clarity and coherence of your writing. 

In this guide, we will explore the complexities of a book title for inclusion in an essay according to the MLA-APA method. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of the guidelines for each process along with practical writing tips for ensuring that your essays meet proper editorial standards.

So let’s embark on this journey to demystify the process of writing book titles in essays, and ensure that your academic writing shines with professionalism and accuracy.

Importance of Properly Formatting Book Titles in Essays

Properly organizing book titles into essays is a seemingly mundane part of academic writing, but its importance cannot be overstated. Every aspect, from enhancing readability to supporting scholarly integrity, emphasizes the central role of formalization in academic discourse.

By adhering to established formatting guidelines, whether MLA, APA, or other academic styles, authors ensure a clear and cohesive presentation of their work, allowing readers to focus on the content rather than being swallowed up by inconsistent policy 

Properly formatted book titles serve as signposts, guiding readers to the sources of information and ideas, thereby facilitating further exploration and engagement with the scholarly conversation.

By maintaining these standards, writers uphold the principles of academic honesty and integrity, protecting the credibility of their work and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.

From increasing readability and clarity to supporting and inclusive scholarly integrity, each piece emphasizes the critical role of coherent organization in academic discourse. Through organizational guidance that is established in compliance, writers not only demonstrate their attention to detail and commitment to professionalism.

General Rules When Writing a Book Title in an Essay

When incorporating a book title into an essay, whether you’re following MLA, APA, or another citation style, there are general rules to adhere to for clarity and consistency. Here are some overarching guidelines:

1. Italicization vs. Quotation Marks : Determine whether the citation style you’re using requires book titles to be italicized or enclosed in double quotation marks. In MLA style, for instance, book titles are italicized, while in APA style, they are enclosed in double quotation marks. Be sure to follow the specific requirements of your chosen citation style.

2. Punctuation : Regardless of the citation style, book titles should be punctuated properly. This means using appropriate punctuation marks such as commas, periods, question marks, or exclamation points within or after the title, depending on the context of your sentence.

3. Capitalization : Follow the capitalization rules prescribed by your citation style. Typically, capitalize the first word of the title, as well as any proper nouns or adjectives. However, lowercase all other words unless they are proper nouns or adjectives.

4. Consistency : Maintain consistency throughout your essay in how you format book titles. Whether italicized or enclosed in quotation marks, ensure that you apply the chosen formatting consistently each time you reference a book title within your text.

5. In-text Citation : Provide an in-text citation whenever you reference a book title within your essay. This citation typically includes the author’s last name and the publication year, enclosed in parentheses. Consult the guidelines of your citation style for specific formatting requirements for in-text citations.

6. Reference List or Works Cited : At the end of your essay, include a reference list (APA) or works cited page (MLA) that provides full bibliographic details for all sources cited in your essay, including book titles. Format the entry for each book title according to the guidelines of your chosen citation style.

7. Accuracy : Double-check the spelling and formatting of book titles to ensure accuracy. Incorrectly formatted titles or typographical writing errors can detract from the professionalism and credibility of your essay.

By following these general rules, you can effectively integrate book titles into your essay while maintaining clarity, consistency, and adherence to the conventions of your chosen citation style.

What Are MLA & APA Styles

Two well-known citation formats used in academic writing are MLA (Modern Language Association) and APA (American Psychological Association). Both styles provide guidelines for formatting various elements of a paper, including citations, references, and formatting of titles, such as book titles within essays.

In MLA style, book titles are generally italicized within the body of the essay. This means that when referring to a book title within the text, it should be italicized to distinguish it from the surrounding text. Additionally, MLA style typically requires authors’ names and page numbers to be included in in-text citations for direct quotations or paraphrased information.

On the other hand, APA style follows slightly different conventions for formatting book titles in essays. According to Wikipedia, APA style (also known as APA format) is a writing style and format for academic documents such as scholarly journal articles and books. In APA style, book titles are not italicized; instead, they are enclosed in quotation marks. Similarly to MLA style, APA requires authors’ names and publication years to be included in in-text citations for direct quotations or paraphrased information.

Understanding these differences is essential for properly formatting book titles in essays according to MLA and APA styles. While both styles aim to maintain consistency and clarity in academic writing, they have distinct rules regarding the formatting of book titles. 

Adhering to the specific guidelines of each style ensures that your writing meets the expectations of scholarly standards and effectively communicates your ideas to readers.

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay in MLA Style

Writing a book title in an essay in MLA style requires attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines to maintain consistency and accuracy. Whether you’re discussing a classic novel, a contemporary work of fiction, or a scholarly publication, correctly formatting the book title is essential for conveying your ideas effectively. Let’s explore the steps for properly formatting a book title in an essay according to MLA style:

1. Italicize the Title : One of the fundamental rules in MLA style is to italicize the title of the book when mentioned within the body of the essay. Italicization serves to differentiate the title from the surrounding text and emphasizes its importance to the reader. For instance:

– In “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Harper Lee explores themes of racial injustice and moral growth.

2. Use Title Case : When writing the title of the book, capitalize the principal words, including nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives. Articles, conjunctions, and prepositions are generally not capitalized unless they are the first or last word in the title or part of a hyphenated word. Here’s an example:

– “The Catcher in the Rye” remains a classic coming-of-age novel.

3. Include Author’s Name : It is customary to include the author’s name when introducing the title of the book in your essay. This provides essential context for the reader and acknowledges the author’s contribution to the work. Typically, the author’s last name is sufficient, especially if it’s clear from the context which work is being referenced. For example:

– In “Beloved” by Morrison, the legacy of slavery haunts the characters’ lives.

4. Format In-Text Citations : When quoting directly from the book or paraphrasing its content, it’s crucial to include an in-text citation following MLA guidelines. The citation should include the author’s last name and the page number(s) from which the quotation or paraphrase is taken. For instance:

– (Hemingway 22) or (Smith and Johnson 45)

5. Titles Within Titles : If the book you’re discussing contains a title within its title, such as a collection of essays or short stories, follow specific formatting rules. Italicize the title of the larger work and enclose the title of the smaller work in double quotation marks. Here’s an example:

– In “The Norton Anthology of English Literature,” the essay “Shakespeare’s Women” examines the portrayal of female characters in his plays.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively integrate book titles into your essays under MLA style. Consistency and accuracy in formatting not only enhance the professionalism of your writing skills but also demonstrate your commitment to scholarly standards and integrity.

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay in APA Style

Writing a book title in an essay according to APA style necessitates adherence to specific formatting conventions to ensure clarity, consistency, and compliance with academic standards. Here’s a comprehensive guide detailing the steps involved:

1. Punctuation and Enclosure : Book titles must be enclosed within double quotation marks. This distinguishes them from other texts in the essay and signals to readers that they are referring to the title of a specific work. For instance, if you’re discussing the book “To Kill a Mockingbird” within your essay, it should be presented as “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

2. Capitalization : When formatting book titles in APA style, capitalize the first word of the title, as well as any proper nouns or adjectives. However, all other words in the title should be lowercase unless they are proper nouns or adjectives. For example, the book title “The Catcher in the Rye” follows this capitalization pattern.

3. Italicization vs. Quotation Marks : Unlike MLA style, which mandates italicization for book titles, APA style requires book titles to be enclosed in double quotation marks. This distinction is crucial for adhering to APA guidelines accurately.

4. In-text Citation : Whenever you reference a book title within your essay, it’s essential to provide an in-text citation to acknowledge the source. This citation typically includes the author’s last name and the publication year in parentheses. 

For example, you might write, “In the novel ‘1984’ (Orwell, 1949)…”

5. Reference List Entry : After your essay, you must include a reference list that provides comprehensive bibliographic details for all sources cited in your work. When listing a book in the reference list, include the author’s last name followed by their first initial, the publication year in parentheses, the book title in italics (or within double quotation marks if it’s an article or chapter within a larger work), the publication location, and the publisher’s name. Here’s an example of a book reference list entry:

Orwell, G. (1949). 1984. New York, NY: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

By meticulously following these guidelines, you can effectively integrate book titles into your essay according to APA style, ensuring accuracy, professionalism, and adherence to academic conventions.

In conclusion, correctly formatting a book title within an essay is essential for maintaining consistency and adhering to the guidelines set forth by MLA and APA styles. Remember to italicize the title in both styles and to capitalize significant words according to the rules of each style guide. 

By following these simple guidelines, writers or authors can ensure their essays are properly formatted, enhancing the overall professionalism and credibility of their work. 

So, whether you’re citing a classic novel or a contemporary bestseller, mastering the art of writing book titles in MLA and APA styles will undoubtedly elevate the quality of your writing.

FAQs: How to Write a Book Title in an Essay in MLA & APA Styles

What’s the importance of correctly formatting book titles in essays.

Accurate formatting of book titles is crucial for academic integrity and professionalism in writing. It demonstrates your understanding of citation styles like MLA and APA and enhances the clarity and organization of your essay.

How do I format a book title in MLA style within an essay?

In MLA style, italicize the titles of books and use title case (capitalize the first letter of major words and any important words in the title). For example, “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

What about formatting book titles in APA style?

In APA style, capitalize only the first word of the title, the first word of the subtitle (if any), and any proper nouns. Additionally, italicize the title. For example, “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Are there any exceptions to the italicization rule for book titles?

Yes, if you’re writing by hand or using a typewriter where italics aren’t possible, underline the title instead.

How do I reference a book title in-text using MLA and APA styles?

In MLA style, place the author’s last name and the page number in parentheses after the quote or paraphrase. For example, (Fitzgerald 47). In APA style, include the author’s last name and the publication year, separated by a comma, within parentheses. For example, (Fitzgerald, 1925).

Do I need to include the author’s name in the essay when referring to the book title?

Yes, both MLA and APA styles require you to include the author’s name when referring to the book title in your essay. This helps provide context and credit to the original author.

What should I do if the book title contains a subtitle?

In both MLA and APA styles, include the subtitle after the main title, separated by a colon. Capitalize any proper nouns and the subtitle’s first word. For example, “The Great Gatsby: A Novel of the Jazz Age.”

Can I abbreviate book titles in my essay?

It’s generally recommended to use the full title of the book to ensure clarity and accuracy. Abbreviations might lead to confusion, especially in scholarly writing.

Where can I find more detailed guidelines for formatting book titles in MLA and APA styles?

You can refer to the official MLA Handbook or the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association for comprehensive guidelines on formatting book titles and other citation-related issues. Additionally, numerous online resources and style guides provide detailed explanations and examples.

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How to Write Book Titles in Essays: APA, MLA, Chicago Styles

It’s your practical and up-to-point guide on how to write a book title in an essay. You’ll get the formatting rules and examples for citing book and author names in academic papers.

We’ve covered the top three citation styles: APA, Chicago, and MLA.

How to Write the Title of a Book in an Essay

First, remember the general rules of citing book names in academic works.

Here’s how to cite books in essays :

• Use capitalization. Every word of a book’s name goes in the title case, except prepositions, articles, and coordinating conjunctions.
• Use italics for longer and independent works. Use double quotations for shorter ones (poems, articles, book chapters, or play acts and scenes).
• Use single quotations for a book’s title within another title. (When citing monographs about literary works, for example.) 

While capitalization rules depend on the citation style, some general tips have a place to be. Please, no capitalization for:

• Articles: a, the (unless the book title begins with it)
• Coordinating conjunctions and prepositions: of, and, or, but, for, to, nor, in, so (unless the book title begins or ends with it)

Subordinating conjunctions (although, unless, because, if) go in capital letters.

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay: APA

APA (American Psychological Association) is the most popular style for citing academic works. It’s common for the social sciences like Education, Psychology, Sociology, and others. The current edition: 7th (2019).

Book titles in APA stand for:

• Italics. (If a book name includes any punctuation, italicize it too.)
• Capitalization. (Capitalize all words longer than four letters , regardless of the part of speech. Also, use capital letters for two-part words and those coming after a dash or a colon.)
• Double quotations instead of italics. (When citing a short work like an article or a poem; when citing a book chapter or when the book is a part of an anthology.)

For example: 

The Lord of the Rings but “The Fellowship of the Ring” (The latter is part of the trilogy.)

Related: How to Cite a Movie in APA Format

How to Write the Name of a Book in an Essay: Chicago

The Chicago Manual of Style is a guide by the University of Chicago. It’s common for fields like History, Fine Arts, and Business. The current edition: 17th (2017).

How to format book titles in Chicago:

• Italicize longer and independent works; put shorter ones in double quotations.
• Use italics for punctuation within a title.
• Capitalize all words except articles (a, the) and ALL prepositions or conjunctions (regardless of length).

For example:

In George Orwell’s 1984 , the author presents a dystopian society characterized by pervasive government surveillance and the suppression of individual freedom. The harrowing events in “Chapter 2,” where Winston Smith begins to rebel against the Party by starting a forbidden diary, mark a pivotal moment in the novel’s exploration of resistance against totalitarianism.

The style resembles the MLA format, but it’s flexible, allowing you to “break the rules if necessary.”

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay: MLA

MLA format stands for the Modern Language Association. It’s common for humanities like Literature, Culture, Linguistics, etc. The current edition: 8th (2016). 

How to format books in MLA:

• Italicize all words, including punctuation and those of two parts or going after colons and hyphens.
• Capitalize all words except articles (a, the) , prepositions, and short conjunctions within a book title.
• Use double quotations instead of italics when writing a book chapter or a part of a book series.

In Little Women , Beth March dies in Chapter 40, “The Valley of the Shadow.”

Formatting Book Author Names in Papers

Use the author’s full name (first and last) to format it in your essay for proper credit.

If a book has two authors, use both last names and initials. For works with three or more authors, use the last name of the first one and add “et all.”

No need to italicize author names in papers.

Why Properly Cite Book Titles in Essays

The short answer:

You won’t get a high grade for an essay. Formatting blunders count as mistakes.

The longer answer:

• You prove writing skills and an understanding of the rules in academia.
• Your papers maintain consistency. It’s critical to stick to criteria to prevent confusion. The consistent format for book headings also serves to better scannability and readability.
• You learn to cite different types of references for your future projects.

Do you italicize book titles?

Yes, you put book titles in italics. Please italicize long and stand-alone works: books, movies, webpages, reports, or music albums. Shorter works’ titles (articles, essays, poems, songs, or book chapters) come in quotations. (1)

Do you underline book titles?

Underlining book titles is an outdated practice. Some still use it in handwritten essays, but it’s not a must-follow rule. Neither APA nor MLA (or Chicago) mentions underlining book names in academic papers.

How to use book title capitalization in texts?

Capitalize every word in a book’s title. Exceptions are articles (a, the), prepositions, and short (three or fewer letters) conjunctions in mid-titles.

Are books italicized in all formatting styles?

Yes, book titles come in italics in all styles: APA, MLA, and Chicago. When citing book chapters or a book as a part of a series, use quotation marks instead.

How to write a book author in an essay?

Use the author’s full name when citing their book in your papers. For works with several authors, mention their last names and initials. Unlike book titles, author names come in standard formatting with no italics.

References:

• https://english.csuci.edu/resources/essay-writing-essentials.htm
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Book Titles in Essays: Formatting Rules and Examples

How do you write the title of a book in an essay?

A short answer: You look at the assignment’s requirements, see the citation style you should use, and go to a corresponding manual to see what rules it prescribes for writing book titles.

That’s when you might hit a snag:

Most rules for the main styles — APA, MLA, and Chicago — seem identical at first glance. It’s easy to miss a preposition or punctuation rule, capitalize a wrong word, or forget about italics. The devil is in the details, and the final grade for your paper depends on them.

Why not gather the formatting rules for all the citation styles in one place so that it’s more comfortable to compare them and spot specifics?

We’ve got you covered:

In this article, our essay writers share the guidelines for citing book titles in five styles. You’ll see how to write a book title in an essay and how to introduce authors. For the sake of clarity, examples are also here.

What is the title of a book in an essay?

You have several options for formatting a book title in your essay.

First, you can mention it in the essay’s body if you are quoting or paraphrasing information from the book. Also, when compiling a bibliography of the resources you used for research, you’ll need book titles for the reference list.

A book’s title and the details of its author are also essential components in the structure of book review . You’ll mention it in the introduction before summarizing a book’s plot, characters, and themes.

How to put book title in essay:

• Use italics
• Don’t underline or use quotation marks, please
• Don’t capitalize minor words like prepositions and conjunctions of three or fewer letters ( a, of, to, the, etc.) unless they are the first or last word in a book’s title

How to write a book title and author in an essay?

Details to consider:

• Is it an in-text mention or part of a reference list?
• Are you writing about an entire book or one of its chapters?
• Does the book have one or several authors?
• Does the book have a subtitle?
• Is it an independent publication or a collection of essays, series, or short stories? Are you introducing a poem in your essay?

The answers to these questions will give you a clear understanding of how to write a book title and author in an essay. The formatting rules will depend on the above factors and the citation style you should follow. (We’ve covered the two main styles —  APA and MLA — in our essay writing book , available on Amazon.)

There are also some general rules to remember, regardless of the style. Let’s move to them and explore the principles of citing book titles inside and out.

How to Introduce a Book in an Essay: General Rules

Here’s what all the styles agree on in terms of how to introduce a book in an essay:

1 — Italicize the titles of self-contained books. If you mention a novel, a movie, a stand-alone poem, a play, a database, or a website, there’s no need to use quotation marks. For example: 

• Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
• Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
• If by Rudyard Kipling

2 — The titles of parts within a book should go in quotation marks: chapter titles, titles of poems inside a collection, acts or scenes in a play, and so on. For example:

• The Great Gatsby’s “Chapter 5: The Meeting” 
• “The Mirror of Erised” from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

3 — Capitalize both stand-alone book titles and the parts within a complete work. For example:

• The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger by Stephen King
• “Sometimes They Come Back” from Stephen King’s Night Shift

4 — When the title of a book goes within another title (like in cases with monographs about novels or poems), you should also use italics for independent works and single quotation marks for short stories and parts of books.

For example, this is how to write the title of a journal article containing the book’s title:

• “The Unbearable Weight of Authenticity: Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God and a Theory of Touristic Reading.”

And this is how you’d write a journal article title containing the title of a short story:

• “Individualism in O’Connor’s ‘A Good Man is Hard to Find.'”

When to use a capital letter is the trickiest part of writing book titles in essays. The rules vary between style guides and their editions, which can appear confusing and make it more challenging for students to align with the requirements and ensure consistency.

Below, we’ll explore how to put book title in essay according to five different citation styles: APA, MLA, Chicago, CSE, and AMA.

How to Write the Title of a Book in an Essay: Citation Styles

While most students use APA and MLA citation styles in their academic papers, some institutions also assign alternatives like AMA or CSE. We’ve chosen the five most widespread styles for this guide so that you can have all the rules in one place and see the tiny differences between them for more precise writing.

Here, you’ll find the book title writing guidelines for these styles:

• APA (the American Psychological Association)
• MLA (the Modern Language Association)
• Chicago, aka CMOS (the Chicago Manual of Style)
• CSE (the Council of Science Editors)
• AMA (the American Medical Association)

We also recommend using an AI essay checker to revise your papers and reference lists once your drafts are ready. Whatever style you use to cite sources, this will help ensure that your text doesn’t look AI-generated. (Believe us, your teachers won’t appreciate it.)

APA is the documentation style that the American Psychological Association uses for citing sources. Originated in 1929, this form of writing is standard for social sciences like psychology, communications, sociology, and anthropology. Sometimes, it also relates to engineering, nursing, education, and other corresponding fields.

APA addresses manuscripts for journals and the academic papers students write in college. It’s the most popular and common citation style for the essays your teachers will assign during a course.

The latest version is APA Style’s 7th edition, released in 2020.

When it comes to formatting the title of a book in an essay, APA style’s requirements are easy to remember. Take a look:

MLA is a citation style created by the Modern Language Association and is mainly used in humanities like linguistics, literature, philosophy, and cultural and media studies. It’s the second most used style (after APA), with the most recent manual released in 2021 (the 9th edition).

The manual focuses on the formatting rules for in-text citations, which most users find challenging. It also has expanded guidelines on research papers, grammar mechanics, and inclusive language.

Here’s how to write a book title in an essay, according to MLA:

The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) is more common for published works than college papers. Many see it as the top one for writers, editors, and publishers to follow when formatting content. Unlike APA or MLA, Chicago style provides two methods for documenting sources:

• Author-date , recommended for works in the physical, natural, and social sciences. It requires using parenthetical citations in the text, with a corresponding entry on the reference page.
• Notes-bibliography , recommended for works in humanities and some social sciences. It requires using numbered footnotes in the text, with a corresponding shortened citation at the bottom of the page and a fuller citation on the reference page.

The author-date system is similar to APA style and, thus, more common for college essays. When in-text, you mention the author, the date, and the page number (if applicable) in parentheses after the quotation. Like this:

• Enlightenment thinkers, such as Kant, believed in the “universal, eternal, and … immutable qualities of all of humanity” (Harvey 1990, 12).

We can almost hear you asking:

“Can you write my essay in this format?”

Yes, we can. Whenever necessary, ask our academic expert for help with your written assignments. When asking your question, provide detailed requirements, including the citation style you need, so that they know what formatting rules to follow.

Below, let’s explore how to put a book title in an essay in CMOS:

Previously known as CBE (the Council of Biology Editors), this style provided formatting guidelines for the editors of biology journals. Today, we know it as CSE (the Council of Science Editors), and it includes many scientific fields in the life sciences, the physical sciences, and mathematics.

As with CMOS, CSE style recommends two systems for documenting sources:

• Citation-sequence , listing sources on a reference page according to the order of their appearance in the document.
• Name-year , which is similar to the author-date system used in Chicago and APA.

The complete guide is available in Scientific Style and Format: The CSE Manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers (8th ed.) by the Council of Science Editors. Below, we’ll explore how to write a book title in an essay according to this citation style.

AMA stands for the American Medical Association, so it’s a standard citation style in medicine. While it’s less popular than APA or MLA, we’ve decided to include it in this guide anyway, given that medical students might find it helpful.

Is AMA citation the same as APA?

Not quite. While sharing some nuances, the core difference between these two citation styles is that AMA doesn’t use an author-date system in the text. Instead, we use a superscript numbering system here. Like this:

• “Smith² argues that….”

Also, unlike APA, AMA style doesn’t organize the reference list alphabetically, but numerically, based upon the order of the sources’ appearances in the text.

How to write the title of a book in an essay when you use AMA style:

How to Format a Book Title in an Essay

Long story short, most citation styles agree on using the same format for book titles in essays: capitalized, italicized, and with no underlining or quotation mark (unless you write about a book’s chapter or a shorter work like an article, an essay, or a poem within a more extensive work).

Speaking of underlined titles:

When googling information on how to write a book title in an essay, you can find questions from people wondering if they need to underline titles in papers. It’s an old-time practice from when essays were written by hand: You can’t italicize when handwriting, so you underline a title to distinguish it.

Check any book review sample online, and you’ll see that underlining isn’t a common practice anymore.

How to format a book title in an essay in your reference list:

So, How Do You Write the Title of a Book in an Essay?

Now that you’ve read our detailed guide on how to write a book title in an essay, let’s recap:

• Read the guidelines from your teacher before writing: What citation style do you need to follow?
• Check the manual for your assigned style (APA, MLA, or any other) to ensure that you format the book titles and author names correctly.
• Most citation styles (except for CSE) tell you to italicize and capitalize book titles in essays. Nevertheless, proofread carefully to avoid mistakes with the formatting of prepositions, punctuation, and subtitles.

Are you looking for a title for your next paper? Get help from our essay title generator : Give it several keywords on your topic, and get relevant and creative titles that hook your readers.

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How to write a book title in an essay: essential guidelines for students

Updated 08 Jul 2024

Unlocking the art of seamlessly integrating book titles in essays is a skill every writer should master. Navigating the intricate landscape of various style guides, such as MLA, APA, Harvard, or Chicago, requires a nuanced understanding of formatting rules. Whether you’re a student aiming for precision in academic writing or an aspiring author looking to enhance your literary prowess, this article will guide you through the nuances of how to write a book title in an essay in different citation styles.

Let’s delve into the subtleties and ensure your book details are written and presented with finesse!

General rules

Crafting a polished essay or writing book report involves well-thought-out content and meticulous attention to formatting, especially when writing book title. Understanding the general guidelines across popular citation styles is essential for presenting your literary references coherently. Discover where all styles agree on how to quote books in essays. 

• Following formatting requirements, self-contained and independent books, spanning genres like novels, short stories, a collection of poems, and plays, share a common trait. Are book titles italicized? Yes, they are. Consider the following masterpieces as prime examples:

• Components within a larger work, such as acts, chapters, scenes, songs, or individual poems, are embraced by quotation marks. In this case, the whole book title in an essay remains italicized. Let’s see some examples:

• When the book's name mentioned within the overarching title is typically formatted in italics, it’s advisable to employ italic letters consistently. So, the overarching title that encompasses the specific book's discussion should also be italicized. 
• If the name of book in essay (poem or novel) referenced within the overarching title typically appears within double quotation marks, it’s recommended to enclose it in single quotation marks instead. Besides, ensure the formatting is consistent throughout your text. If the main title is italicized, remember to maintain this style for the entire heading, including the nested title within quotation marks. If it’s challenging, you may pay someone to do my homework to avoid any inconsistencies in your formatting. Let’s see how these two guidelines can be implemented in the following examples:

• Both stand-alone books and subsections within a larger work adhere to title case capitalization, where major words are capitalized. Consider the following examples:

When considering how to write book titles in essays it's essential to note that capitalization rules can vary significantly between style guides, adding a layer of complexity. Therefore, the path you choose for capitalization should align with the specific style requirements, ensuring consistency and adherence to academic standards. Whether following APA, MLA, or another guide, clarity in title presentation is a key element in elevating the overall quality of your handwritten work.

Don't risk a zero grade!

Hire our experts to proofread, polish, and check your work for accuracy. Just $7/page. Zero AI.

How to write a book title in different citation styles: APA, MLA, Chicago, AMA, and CSE 

Navigating the proper formatting of book titles in an essay requires understanding the diverse rules prescribed by various style guides. Whether you’re following the guidelines of the Modern Language Association, American Psychological Association, Chicago Manual of Style, or another specific style, each has unique conventions for presenting the book’s details within your text. In this exploration, we delve into the nuances of formatting an essay body containing book names and emphasize the distinct approaches dictated by different styles.

How to write a book title in an essay in APA style? The rules for indicating the names of books and authors are as follows:

Book titles:

• Italicize all the words and punctuation. Do not underline or place them in quotation marks.
• Capitalize the first word of titles of books in papers, the first word after a colon, and all major words. Avoid capitalizing minor words (e.g., articles, prepositions, conjunctions) unless they are the first word of the name or longer than four letters.
• Always place the book title after the author’s name.

Example: The Great Gatsby .

Author names:

• Write the author’s last name followed by their initials without spaces or periods.
• If multiple authors are indicated in your college papers for sale , separate their names with commas and use an ampersand (&) before the last author’s name.
• If the work has a group or corporate author (e.g., an organization), write the name in full.

Example 1 (single author): Smith, J. A.

Example 2 (multiple authors): Smith, J. A., Johnson, M. R., & Brown, P. S.

Example 3 (group author): American Psychological Association.

Should we italicize or quote book titles according to MLA style? Modern Language Association suggests the following guidelines for academic papers:

• Write the book title in essay in italics. Underlining or placing them in quotation marks is not required.
• Capitalize the first and last words of the title, as well as all major words in between. Do not capitalize minor words unless they are the first or last words of the title or come after a colon.

Example: A Good Man Is Hard to Find.

• Write the author’s full name with the last name first, followed by the first name.
• If there are multiple authors, enumerate them in the order they appear on the title page.
• If the work has a corporate author (e.g., an organization), you can use the organization’s name.

Example 1: Fitzgerald, F. Scott.

Example 2: Smith, John, and Mary Johnson.

Example 3: Modern Language Association.

“Do you italicize authors names in Chicago?” you can ask. Let’s speak about this formatting style. The rules listed in the Chicago essay guide prescribe the following:

• Italicize or underline (older tradition) the titles of larger works, including books. It's more common for readers to see italics in modern Chicago style.
• Capitalize the first and last words of the title, along with all major words in between. Do not capitalize minor words unless they are the first or last words of the title or come after a colon.

Example: Murder on the Orient Express .

• Write the author's full name with the last name first, followed by the first name.
• If there are several writers, indicate them in the order they appear on the title page.

Example 1: Ellison, Ralph.

Example 2: Wood, James, and Mary Jane.

Example 3: University of Chicago Press.

Discover how to quote a book in an essay in AMA. The American Medical Association has specific guidelines for citing and formatting. Here are the rules:

• Use italics for the titles of larger works, including books ─ no need to underline or place them in quotation marks.
• Capitalize only the first word of the title and any proper nouns. Do not capitalize the first letter of subsequent words unless they are proper nouns.

Example: The great Gatsby .

• Write the author's last name followed by their initials without spaces or periods.
• If there are multiple authors, use commas to separate them and apply an ampersand (&) before the last author’s name.
• If the work has a group or corporate author, write the name in full.

Example 1: Fitzgerald FS.

Example 2: Smith JA, Johnson MR, & Brown PS.

Example 3: American Medical Association.

The requirements of the Council of Science Editors are similar to the AMA style. If you find them challenging or need clarifications, you may always send us your “ write an essay for me ” request and get support with your formatting anytime. Let’s see the essential guidelines: 

• Italicize the title of books in essay (here, we mean larger works, not chapters or articles). Do not underline them, and avoid using quotation marks.
• Use capitalizing for only the first word of the title, proper nouns, and the first word after a colon or em dash.

Example: A tale of two cities.

• Write the author's last name followed by a space and their initials, with no commas or periods between the initials.
• If there are multiple authors, use commas to separate them, and use an ampersand (&) before the last author's name.

Example 1: Dickens C.

Example 2: Clark JB, Doe JM, & Anderson KL.

Example 3: Council of Science Editors.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, navigating the intricacies of writing a book title in an essay is an important skill for any writer. By mastering the diverse formatting rules of style guides, you’ll meet academic standards and infuse your work with professionalism. As you embark on your next writing journey, remember that precision matters. 

For personalized assistance and expert guidance in creating argumentative essays, consider EduBirdie as your go-to ally. Elevate your writing experience and achieve excellence with the support of a trusted partner. Take the first step towards impeccable papers ─ choose EduBirdie for your writing success!

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Steven Robinson is an academic writing expert with a degree in English literature. His expertise, patient approach, and support empower students to express ideas clearly. On EduBirdie's blog, he provides valuable writing guides on essays, research papers, and other intriguing topics. Enjoys chess in free time.

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How to Write a Book Title in MLA Formatting

by Joe Bunting | 2 comments

You're writing a paper for school and suddenly you stop in the middle of the sentence. You have to write a book title, but you don't how to format it. How do you format a book title in MLA style? Good news: you're in the write place (sorry, I had to).

In this post, we'll talk about MLA style and formatting, whether it's appropriate for your project, and most importantly, how to write a book title in MLA style.

What Is MLA?

MLA stands for Modern Language Association, a society primarily based in the United States but with international standing, that has a mission to “strengthen the study and teaching of language and literature”. Founded in the late 1800s by an American novelist and professor, MLA publishes a set of resources used by students and teachers, including the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers .

The MLA handbook is one of the main style manuals for students and scholars in the world, especially for anyone studying literature, film, or theater.

Should You Format Based on MLA Style?

If you're writing a paper for a class in literature, theater, or film, absolutely use MLA style. Outside of that, it depends. Here are the most frequent style guides associated with various disciplines:

• Literature, Film, Theater:   MLA
• Psychology:   APA
• Science (Physics, Biology, Chemistry): CSE or APA
• Journalism:   AP
• Mathematics:   AMA
• Publishing:   Chicago

You can find a full list of international style guides here .

Now that you know if you should be using MLA style, how do you format a book title with it?

How to Format a Book Title in MLA Style: Example

In MLA style, book titles are italicized, as so:

Henry Thorough argues in Walden  that the best life is lived in deliberate simplicity so as to discover what life truly is about.

In fact, most style guides, including MLA and   Chicago style, require book titles to be italicized , not underlined.

If the book title has a subtitle, the subtitle should be italicized as well and separated by a colon to be formatted correctly for MLA style, as in:

Natural History of the Intellect: the last lectures of Ralph Waldo Emerson

Should You Underline Book Titles in MLA Style?

If you are using MLA style, you should not underline book titles. Instead, italicize the titles.

However, AP style, the guide used by journalists, suggests putting titles in quotation marks, not italicization.

Still, I wouldn't recommend underlining a book's title. In fact, I couldn't find a single style guide that requires book titles to be underlined, but if you know of one that does, let me know in the comments!

Which style guide do you use most? MLA? Chicago? APA? AP? Or do you just write based on your own rules?!  Let me know in the comments .

Let's cement this formatting lesson in our minds by putting it to use right away with the following writing exercise .

What are your favorite books of all time? Write about what you love about them and why they are your favorites for fifteen minutes . Make sure to use the correct formatting for each title!

When your time is up, post your practice in the comments section . And if you post, please be sure to read a few practices by other writers and share your feedback with them.

Happy writing!

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

how do you format the title if you’re writing on paper and can’t italicize?

When writing by hand, you can underline book titles.

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How to Write a Book Title in an Essay: A Simple Guide

Julia McCoy

Mastering the art of citation is crucial for academic writing, and one common dilemma writers face is how to write a book title in an essay.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of citing book titles, exploring different citation styles, and providing practical tips to ensure your essays are not only well-written but also properly referenced.

Whether you’re navigating the nuances of MLA, APA, or Chicago style, we’ve got you covered with clear guidelines and examples to help you confidently write book titles in your next masterpiece.

Let’s get started!

Table Of Contents:

How to write book titles in essays, how to format book citations, writing various types of titles in essays, emphasizing book titles in essays, punctuating and capitalizing book titles, examples of writing book titles in essays, faqs – how to write a book title in an essay.

Writing book titles in essays can be tricky, especially with different style guides like MLA, APA, and Chicago. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some tips and examples on how to quote a book title in your essay.

MLA Style Guide

In MLA style, book titles are italicized, both in the text of your paper and in the Works Cited list.

For example: Toni Morrison’s Beloved is a powerful novel about the lasting impact of slavery.

Similarly, in the style guide of the American Psychological Association, book titles should also be italicized in the text and the reference list.

For instance: In The Catcher in the Rye , Holden Caulfield grapples with the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Chicago Manual

In Chicago style, book titles are italicized in the text and the bibliography.

Like this: Michael Pollan explores the origins of our food in The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals .

Regardless of the style guide, there are some general formatting rules to keep in mind.

Titles of books should be underlined or italicized. Titles of stories, essays, and poems are placed in quotation marks.

Refer to the text specifically as a novel, story, essay, memoir, or poem, depending on what it is.

Capitalization Rules

Use capital letters to write the title of a novel.

For example, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Quotation Marks

Titles of stories, essays, and poems are placed in “quotation marks.” This helps differentiate them from longer works like novels or non-fiction books.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some specifics for different types of titles you might encounter.

Journal Articles

If the book title is part of a larger work, like a journal article, it should be underlined instead of italicized.

Short Stories

Titles of short stories should be placed in quotation marks.

For example: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson.

Chapter Titles

When referencing a chapter title, enclose it in quotation marks.

For instance: “The Boy Who Lived” from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone .

Article Titles

Article titles, like those found in English-language newspapers or magazines, should also be placed in quotation marks.

For example: “Why We Crave Horror Movies” by Stephen King.

Newspaper Titles

Italicize the names of newspapers, like The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal .

The names of websites should generally be italicized, such as The Huffington Post or BuzzFeed .

Book Series

When referring to a book series as a whole, italicize the name of the series. Individual books within the series should also be italicized.

For example: the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, which includes titles like Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets .

Sometimes you want to draw extra attention to a book title in your essay. Here’s how to do it effectively.

When to Italicize

As a general rule, italicize the titles of longer works such as books, edited collections, movies, television series, documentaries, or albums.

When to Use Quotation Marks

Shorter works like poems, articles, book chapters, songs, TV episodes, or other shorter works should be placed in quotation marks.

Exceptions to the Rules

As with any rule, there are exceptions. Some style guides prefer underlining to italics. Others may recommend using quotation marks around the title and italicizing or underlining the name of the newspaper or magazine it appears in.

When in doubt, always check with your instructor or the publication you’re writing for.

Punctuation and capitalization are key when it comes to book titles in essays. Get it wrong, and your writing won’t look as polished.

Using Question Marks

If a book title ends with a question mark or exclamation point, include it in the italics.

For example: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick

In general, capitalize the first word and all major words (nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and some conjunctions).

Don’t capitalize articles, prepositions, or conjunctions unless they’re the first or last word.

Some style guides recommend capitalizing prepositions five letters or longer.

Title case is the most common form of title capitalization and is found in all four major title capitalization styles (AP, APA, MLA, and Chicago).

Capitalize the first word in the title, the last word in the title, and all “major” words in between.

Proper Nouns

Always capitalize proper nouns, such as the names of people, places, organizations, or other proper nouns in a book title.

For example: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling.

Let’s look at some examples of how to write book titles in various situations.

Classic Literature

When referencing a classic work of literature, italicize the book’s title in the text of your paper.

In the Works Cited entry, include the author’s full name, the title of the book (in italics), the publisher, and the year of publication.

For example:

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice . Penguin Classics, 2002.

Contemporary Literature

For a contemporary work, follow the same format in the text of your essay.

In the Works Cited entry, include the author’s name, book title (in italics), publisher, year of publication, and medium of publication (print, web, etc.).

Here’s an example:

Whitehead, Colson. The Underground Railroad . Doubleday, 2016. Print.

Non-Fiction Works

When citing a non-fiction book, use the same format as you would for a fictional work. Italicize the book title in the text and the Works Cited entry. Include the author’s name, book title (in italics), publisher, year of publication, and medium of publication.

For instance:

Krakauer, Jon.  Into the Wild . Anchor Books, 1997. Print.

How do you write the title of a book in a sentence?

In sentences, capitalize the first word and proper nouns. If it’s central to your point, italicize it.

Is a book title italicized or in quotes?

Book titles are usually italicized. Quotes are for shorter works like articles or poems.

How do you write a book title in a handwritten essay?

If handwritten, underline book titles instead of using italics to highlight them.

So there you have it – your complete guide to how to write a book title in an essay. By following these simple rules for MLA, APA, and Chicago style, you’ll be able to format your book titles correctly every time.

Remember, the key is to be consistent and pay attention to the details. Whether you’re italicizing, underlining, or using quotation marks, make sure you’re applying the rules consistently throughout your essay.

Written by Julia McCoy

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• Specific Rules for Authors & Titles

APA Style - 7th edition: Specific Rules for Authors & Titles

• Basic Information

Rules for Writing Author and Editor Information

Rules for writing titles.

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There are certain things to keep in mind when writing the author's name according to APA style. Authors may be individual people, multiple people, groups (institutions or organizations), or a combination of people and groups. 

• You must include all the authors up to 20 for individual items. For example, if you are using an article that has 19 authors you must list them all out on your reference page. 
• Use initials for the first and middle names of authors. Use one space between initials.
• All names are inverted (last name, first initial).
• Do not hyphenate a name unless it is hyphenated on the item.
• Separate the author's names with a comma and use the ampersand symbol "&"  before the last author listed.
• Spell out the name of any organization that is listed as an author.
• If there is no author listed, the item title moves in front of the publication date and is used.

An item that you use may have an editor instead of an author or in the case of audiovisual materials a writer or director.

• For editors follow the same rules above and put the abbreviation (Ed.) or (Eds.) behind the name(s). 
• For audiovisual materials follow the same rules as above and put the specialized role (Writer) (Director) behind the name. 

Zhang, Y. H.  (one author)

Arnec, A., & Lavbic, D. (two authors)​

Kent State University (organization as author)

Barr, M. J. (Ed.). (1 editor)

Powell, R. R., & Westbrook, L. (Eds.). (2 editors)

here are certain things to keep in mind when writing a title according to APA style.

• Book titles are italicized and written using sentence case (only the first word of a title, subtitle, or proper noun are capitalized).
• Book chapter titles are written using sentence case and are not italicized.
• Journal titles are italicized and written using title case (all the important words are capitalized).
• Article titles are written using sentence case and are not italicized.
• Webpages and websites are italicized and written using sentence case.

Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (book title, American Psychological Association is a proper noun so it is capitalized)

Student perspective of plagiarism (book chapter title)

Internet plagiarism in higher education: Tendencies, trigging factors and reasons among teacher candidates (article title, Tendencies is the first word of a sub-title so it is capitalized)

Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education (journal title)

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• Last Updated: Jul 14, 2023 4:23 PM
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📚 Mastering the Art of Writing a Book Title in an Essay

Mastering the art of writing a book title in an essay.

Why is Book Title Formatting Important?

Understanding the rules, common mistakes to avoid, additional resources.

Should You Indent When Starting a New Paragraph in MLA Format?

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How do you cite the title of a book in an essay?

How should you represent a book title in a handwritten essay?

Is it appropriate to italicize a book title in a paper?

Should a book title be underlined or italicized when writing an essay?

Is it necessary to italicize book titles every time they are mentioned in an essay?

How should a book title be written in a personal note?

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How to Write the Title of a Book in an Essay

• by Lesley V.
• November 21, 2023

If you want to know how to cite books in essays properly, here’s my guide on the top three citation styles.

You’ll learn to cite the title of books in essay in APA, MLA, and Chicago.

Get ready to remember formatting guidelines and consider examples.

Book Titles: Formatting Guide  

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay: APA 

I’ll focus on the latest version, APA’s 7th edition [1]. For this format, you provide the author’s surname, initials, the publishing year (use round brackets), the italicized title, the publisher, and DOI if the manual has it.

If the book has several authors, place surnames in the alphabetic order, with “&” before the last surname. If it’s an edited work without an author, put the editor’s surname and initials at the beginning. In the case of several editors, add “Ed.” or “Eds.” after the initials.

If the copy has both an author and an editor, place the author’s surname initials in the beginning and add the editor’s surname and initials in brackets between the book title and the name of its publisher.

•  Shakespeare, W. (1954).  The tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark . The Folio Society. 
•  Black S. (1981).  How to live this life . (White A. & Brown L., Eds.) Scale University Press. 

How to Write a Book Title in an Essay: MLA 

I provide the rules according to MLA’s 8th edition [2]. 

Provide the author’s full name, italicize the book title, the publishing place (for works older than 1900), the publisher, and the publication date.

If the  copy has several authors , you write the first author’s surname and their name after a comma and then name other authors in the usual name-surname order. Add “and” before the last author in the list. 

In the case of books with no authors, the MLA format doesn’t require you to note the editors. You can skip the part with authorship and start with the title in italics. 

Examples to correctly cite books in MLA:

• Shakespeare, William.  The tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark . The Folio Society. 1954.
• Encyclopedia of Montana . Summerset, 1993.

How to Write Book Titles in Essays: Chicago

The fine points of the Chicago style are the fine points for the footnotes and endnotes as in-text references: 

In the footnote, you provide the author’s first and last name, italicize the book title, specify the place of publication, publisher, and year in round brackets, and write the page number. 

The difference between the footnote and source in the bibliography is not so big. In the bibliography, you provide the author’s surname, not the name first. Also, don’t use round brackets and page numbers. 

Writing Author Names in Paper Bodies 

Authors’ surnames in the bodies of papers go in capital letters. Depending on the citation style, it might or might not require a personal name. 

For example, APA 7 or MLA 8 doesn’t require the author’s name. In-text citations in APA will be  “As Shakespeare (1954) writes, ” while Chicago, as you can see from above, requires both first and last names in footnotes.

In Lieu of a Conclusion: FAQs

• Are books italicized? 

Yes, the titles of the books go in italics in the references. 

• Do you underline book titles? 

No, you don’t need to underline the book titles. The exception might be if you write an essay by hand. It’s hard to italicize titles when handwriting, so you underline the name to specify it.

• How do you write book titles with subtitles in an essay? 

Italicize the title, start with a capital letter, and place the subtitle after the colon, also capitalized.  For example :  I am Malala: The story of the girl who stood up for education and was shot by the Taliban.

• How to write a short story title in an essay?

A story, poem, essay, or any other short genre represented as a book part must go in quotation marks. For example:   “The Intruder.”  It’s a short story in Andre Dubus’s collection,  Dancing After Hours .

• Why properly cite books in essays?

The title of the books in the essay is critical for a reader to understand what kind of source this is.

References:

• https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/index.html

2. https://libguides.southernct.edu/mla/core/title

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How to Write Book Titles in MLA

Last Updated: April 1, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Annaliese Dunne and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Annaliese Dunne is a Middle School English Teacher. With over 10 years of teaching experience, her areas of expertise include writing and grammar instruction, as well as teaching reading comprehension. She is also an experienced freelance writer. She received her Bachelor's degree in English. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 49,096 times.

If you're writing a research paper, you may want to include the title of a book in the text of your paper. The handbook for the Modern Language Association (MLA) provides specific rules for how to set off the title of a book from the rest of your text. Generally, titles of books are set apart from the rest of the text following particular formatting, capitalization, and punctuation rules.

Formatting Titles

• Music album titles and film titles are also italicized.
• In earlier editions, the MLA Handbook also permitted titles to be underlined. The 8th edition confirms that underlining is no longer appropriate.

Exception : Religious texts, such as the Bible or the Quran, are not italicized.

• For example, you might write: "In The Great Gatsby in the Classroom: Searching for the American Dream , David Dowling promotes the use of art and film to improve literacy."

• For example, if you were talking about the Nancy Drew series, you would not italicize "Nancy Drew" because the name does not appear in the titles of any of the individual books. In contrast, Harry Potter would be italicized, because the name appears at the beginning of the title of every book in the series.

• For example, if you were writing a paper on The Great Gatsby , you would need to include the full title in your text at least once. If you mentioned the novel more than once, you could use Gatsby as a shortened title.
• How you shorten the title generally depends on your own judgment. Use a word or words that evoke the title easily in the mind of the reader, without any ambiguity.

Capitalizing Titles

• For example, you might write: "Comedian Steve Martin takes on the art world in his novel An Object of Beauty . Note that the word "an" is capitalized because it is the first word. Otherwise, it would be in lowercase.
• If the book also has a subtitle, capitalize the first word of the subtitle just as you did the first word of the title.

• Articles include words such as "a," "an," and "the." Words such as "against," "in," and "to." Note that these words remain in lowercase regardless of their length.

• Coordinating conjunctions include words such as "and," "but," "for," and "nor."
• Subordinating conjunctions include words such as "after," "although," because," "unless," and "until."

• Example: Storytelling and Mythmaking: Images from Film and Literature

Tip: If you have doubts about the parts of speech of the words in a title, you can check your capitalization using free capitalization checkers available online.

• Capitalize all words that would be capitalized in the language the title is written in. For example, since all nouns are capitalized in German, you would capitalize all nouns in a German book title.

Punctuating Titles

• For example, if a title ends in an exclamation point or a question mark, you would include that punctuation mark at the end of the title. The punctuation mark should be italicized so that your readers understand that it's part of the title, not part of your punctuation.
• If the book title ends in a question mark or an exclamation point, it's typically not a good idea to use that title at the end of a sentence, because then the punctuation mark at the end of the book title effectively becomes the punctuation mark for the end of your sentence. Recast your sentence so that the book title doesn't fall at the end of the sentence.

• There is an exception if the book title includes another book title, and the included book title ends in a question mark or exclamation point. Since that punctuation mark belongs to the included book title, you would follow that punctuation mark with a colon. For example: Moby Dick and Absalom, Absalom! : Two American Masterpieces Note that the colon is italicized.

• For example, you might write: "In the 1980s sitcom When Harry Met Sally. . . , the characters examined whether heterosexual cisgender men and women could be friends without ever becoming romantically or sexually involved."
• Note that you'll have to form your sentence so that either a comma or a period is appropriate following the ellipsis or a dash.

Tip: Although it might be difficult for the average person to tell whether a punctuation mark such as a comma or period is italicized, technically any punctuation added to the end of the title should not be italicized.

• For example: England's Monitor; or, The History of Separation . Note that the "or" and all punctuation are also italicized.
• Generally, list the original or oldest title first, followed by any later title.

• For example, since the book Everything Is Nothing: The Poetry of the Great War, Revolution and the Transformation of Europe was published in London, the serial comma would not be added. However, if the book were published in the US, you would add a comma after the word "Revolution."

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• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_literature/formatting.html
• ↑ https://style.mla.org/punctuation-with-titles/
• ↑ https://style.mla.org/trilogy-titles/
• ↑ https://style.mla.org/full-names-titles-in-each-chapter/
• ↑ https://secondary.oslis.org/cite-sources/mla/how-to-capitalize-and-punctuate-titles
• ↑ https://style.mla.org/capitalization-of-titles/
• ↑ https://irsc.libguides.com/c.php?g=483085&p=3303403
• ↑ https://morningside.libguides.com/MLA8/title

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When Writing the Title of a Book in an Essay: Best Practices

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Title Capitalization and Formatting: How to Get it Right in Your Essay

Understanding the purpose: why book titles matter in essays, choosing the appropriate writing style: italics vs. quotation marks, the art of punctuation: using colons and commas in book titles, citing a title within a title: navigating complexities with ease, maintaining consistency: applying capitalization rules in different citation styles, when to abbreviate and when to spell out: handling long book titles, attention to detail: ensuring accuracy in book title references, frequently asked questions, concluding remarks.

When it comes to writing essays, it’s crucial to pay attention to the proper capitalization and formatting of your title. Understanding these guidelines can greatly enhance the quality and readability of your work. Here are some tips to help you get it right:

1. Capitalize the First and Last Words: In your title, capitalize the first and last word, as well as all nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs. It’s important to note that articles, conjunctions, and prepositions should only be capitalized if they are the first or last word in the title.

2. Follow Title Case Style: Title case is the recommended style for capitalizing titles. In this style, capitalize all major words, including the ones mentioned earlier, while leaving minor words (such as articles, conjunctions, and prepositions) lowercase. Examples of major words include “How,” “Get,” and “Right,” while minor words include “to,” “and,” and “in.”

3. Use Proper Formatting: Ensure that your essay title is properly formatted. Begin by placing your title in the center of the page, and if required, use bold or larger font size. Italicize titles of longer works, such as books or movies, within your essay title to distinguish them.

4. Be Consistent: Maintain consistency in capitalization and formatting throughout your essay. Stick to the chosen style and apply it diligently to all titles within your work. This creates a professional and coherent presentation of your ideas.

By adhering to these title capitalization and formatting guidelines, your essay will not only look polished and well-structured, but also demonstrate your attention to detail. Remember, first impressions matter, and a properly formatted title can captivate your readers, setting the tone for an engaging and well-crafted essay.

Choosing the right book title for your essay may seem like a trivial matter, but it is actually an essential component of your writing. The title serves as a gateway to your content, capturing the reader’s attention and setting the tone for the entire piece. Furthermore, a well-crafted book title can provide valuable insights into the main theme or argument of your essay. Here’s why book titles matter and how they can enhance your writing:

• Attracting readers: A captivating book title immediately grabs the reader’s interest and entices them to explore your essay further. It creates a sense of intrigue and curiosity that encourages potential readers to click on your work or delve deeper into the content.
• Summarizing the content: A book title acts as a concise summary of your essay, allowing readers to quickly grasp the main idea or subject matter. By carefully selecting a title that effectively conveys your message, you provide a glimpse into the content’s focus and make it easier for readers to decide if it aligns with their interests or needs.
• Setting the tone: The title of your essay can establish the overall tone or mood you want to convey. Whether it’s thought-provoking, humorous, or solemn, a well-considered book title can instantly create the desired atmosphere, giving readers a sense of what to expect from your writing.

In conclusion, the power of a book title should not be underestimated when it comes to crafting impactful essays. By choosing a title that captures attention, summarizes the content, and sets the tone, you can effectively guide readers towards engaging with your work. Remember, a compelling book title is not just an afterthought but an essential element of your essay that contributes to its overall effectiveness.

When it comes to choosing the right writing style for your text, understanding the differences between italics and quotation marks is crucial. Both formatting options serve distinct purposes and can greatly enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

Italics, indicated by the tag, are commonly used to emphasize words or phrases within a sentence. By slanting the text, italics draw attention to specific terms, providing emphasis and adding a level of importance. For example, when discussing a foreign word or phrase, italics can help indicate that it is not a native term and should be approached accordingly. Additionally, italics are commonly used for titles of larger works, such as books, albums, or movies, as well as to highlight scientific names or terms. They give your writing a cohesive and polished appearance, making it easier for readers to identify and comprehend important information.

On the other hand, quotation marks, marked by the tag, serve a different purpose. They primarily indicate direct quotes or dialogue within a text. By enclosing a word, phrase, or sentence within quotation marks, you separate it from the rest of the text, signifying that it is being borrowed or spoken by someone else. Quotation marks are essential for creating clear attribution and avoiding plagiarism. Moreover, they are useful for highlighting the titles of shorter works, like articles, poems, or individual song tracks , helping readers recognize these distinct elements within your writing. The correct use of quotation marks can effectively convey meaning and prevent misunderstandings when reading a text.

Colons and commas are two essential punctuation marks that can add depth and clarity to book titles. Whether you’re a writer or an avid reader, understanding how to use these punctuation marks effectively can significantly enhance the impact of a book’s title. Let’s dive into the art of punctuation and explore the different ways colons and commas can be employed to create captivating titles.

Using Colons: 1. Separating the Main Title from a Subtitle: Colons are often used to distinguish the primary title of a book from its subtitle. This allows authors to convey additional information or provide a hint about the book’s content. For example, “The Journey Within: Unleashing Your True Potential” or “Dreams of Eternity: Exploring the Unknown Realm.” 2. Introducing Lists or Concepts: Colons can also be used to introduce a list or present a series of ideas within a book title. This technique adds an element of intrigue and suggests that the book covers various topics. For instance, “The Elements of Style: Grammar, Rhetoric, and Composition” or “The Art of Simplicity: Declutter your Life, Nurture your Mind, Cultivate Happiness.”

Using Commas: 1. Combining Multiple Authors’ Names: Commas are frequently used to separate the names of multiple authors when co-authoring a book. This punctuation helps to give equal importance to each contributor. For example, “The Sherlock Holmes Adventures: Written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Illustrated by Sidney Paget.” 2. Creating a Sense of Pause: Commas can also be used to create a sense of rhythm or pause within a book title, allowing readers to catch their breath and absorb each component separately. For instance, “Whisper in the Wind, Cry in the Darkness: A Haunting Tale of Love and Loss” or “The Power Within, A Journey of Self-Discovery.”

In the world of writing, it is not uncommon to come across the need to cite a title within a title. However, this seemingly simple task can often present complexities that leave writers scratching their heads. Fear not! We are here to guide you through these complexities with ease.

When it comes to citing a title within a title, it is crucial to understand the proper formatting and punctuation rules to ensure clarity and accuracy. Here are some key pointers to keep in mind:

1. Use double quotation marks for the title within a title. For example, if you are citing an article titled “The Art of Storytelling: Exploring Different Narrative Techniques,” the title within that article should be enclosed in double quotation marks, such as “Analyzing the ‘Hero’s Journey’ Theory.”

2. Ensure proper capitalization. When citing a title within a title, capitalize the first and last words, as well as all principal words (those with four or more letters). However, do not capitalize articles (a, an, the), coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or), or prepositions, unless they are the first or last word of the title within a title.

Maintaining consistency in applying capitalization rules is crucial when adhering to different citation styles, as it ensures accuracy and professional presentation of your writing. Proper capitalization not only conveys professionalism but also helps establish credibility and clarity. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when using different citation styles:

1. APA Style: – Sentence case: Capitalize the first word of the title and any subtitles, as well as any proper nouns. – Example: “The impact of social media on mental health.”

2. MLA Style: – Title case: Capitalize the first, last, and principal words in the title and any subtitles, along with all major words in names and titles. – Example: “The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health.”

3. Chicago Style: – Title case: Capitalize the first and last words of the title, all nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, and subordinating conjunctions. – Example: “The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health.”

Handling long book titles can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding whether to abbreviate or spell them out in their entirety. The choice ultimately depends on various factors, such as style guidelines, readability, and the specific context in which the title is being referenced. To help you navigate this dilemma, here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Consistency is key: When dealing with long book titles, it’s important to maintain consistency throughout your writing. If you’ve chosen to abbreviate a particular title, ensure that you consistently use the same abbreviation each time it appears. This helps to avoid confusion and maintain clarity for your readers.

2. Consider readability: While abbreviating long book titles may seem tempting to save space or streamline your writing, it’s crucial to consider readability. If the abbreviation risks becoming ambiguous or difficult to understand, it may be wiser to spell out the title in its entirety. Remember, your readers should be able to grasp the meaning effortlessly without unnecessary effort.

When it comes to referencing book titles, attention to detail is crucial to ensure accuracy. Incorrectly citing a book can not only undermine the credibility of your work but also lead to confusion among readers. Here are some essential tips to help you master the art of accurately referencing book titles :

• Formatting: Pay close attention to the specific formatting requirements for book titles, as they may vary depending on the citation style. For example, in APA style, book titles are written in sentence case and italicized, while in MLA style, they are written in title case and italicized.
• Title vs. Subtitle: Many books have a main title followed by a subtitle. It is vital to include both components when referencing the book to provide a complete and accurate citation.
• Punctuation: Be careful with punctuation when citing book titles. In most citation styles, titles are italicized or enclosed in quotation marks, and punctuation marks are placed accordingly.

Remember, accuracy in book title references not only demonstrates your attention to detail but also respects the intellectual property of the authors whose works you are referencing. By following these tips, you can ensure that your citations are precise and enhance the credibility of your written work.

Q: What is the proper way to write the title of a book in an essay? A: When writing the title of a book in an essay, it is important to follow some best practices to ensure correct formatting and citation.

In summary, adopting best practices when writing the title of a book in an essay ensures clarity, consistency, and adherence to established guidelines.

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How to Write A BOOK Title In An Essay

Writing a book title in an essay can be confusing. But it is necessary for the credibility and clarity of the write-up. Plus, each writing style has its own rules for formatting titles. Hence, doing such an activity could be a real pain for the students.

Don’t worry, as you are in the right place! Since this interesting article focuses on guiding you about how to write a book title in an essay accurately. So, read it thoroughly before you search for a professional  paper writing services  provider.

Table of Contents

Understanding Formatting Guidelines

The first step in learning how to write book name in essay is to learn the basics. It means you need to get comfortable with different formatting guidelines. Let’s begin with the style guides.

Different style guides

When writing essays for college , it’s important to know the rules for formatting book titles. The three most popular style guides are MLA, APA, and Chicago.

In  MLA format , you should usually italicize book titles. You can also put them in quotation marks when a type of work demands.

For example, a book title like “To Kill a Mockingbird” would be italicized:  To Kill a Mockingbird .

However, a chapter title within a book would be placed within quotation marks. For example, “The Ewell Family.”

In  APA style , the first word of book titles is capital.

For example, a book title like “The Catcher in the Rye” would be written as The catcher in the rye

Chicago Style

Chicago style demands a book title to be in italics or quotation marks. It is very similar to the MLA style. But Chicago style gives you a bit more leeway to use italics or quotation marks. It’s best to stay consistent with what you pick throughout your essay when using the Chicago style.

Consistency within the Essay

You must be consistent when including the title of a book in an essay. Figure out what style guide you must follow and ensure you stick with it. That means all the book titles you mention should look the same.

For example, if you choose to italicize book titles according to MLA style. Ensure that all book titles in your essay are italicized consistently. Avoid mixing italicization with quotation marks or using different formatting styles within the same essay.

Inconsistency in formatting can confuse readers and undermine the professionalism of your work. Paying attention to detail and maintaining consistency will contribute to your essay’s overall clarity and readability.

Determine the Appropriate Style Guide to Follow

To determine the appropriate style guide to follow for formatting book titles in your essay, consider the following:

Assignment Requirements

See if your teacher or the instructions for the assignment mention a certain style to go by. Stick to that, if they do, to ensure everything is consistent, and you meet the expectations.

Academic Discipline

Your field of study can affect which style guide you should use. For example, humanities and literature students usually use MLA style, while social sciences usually use APA style. It’s important to know what’s typical in your discipline to choose the right guide.

Formatting Book Titles in MLA Style

Humanities and liberal arts disciplines use MLA writing rules. In MLA style, book titles are usually in italics like in APA style. But there can be variations in capitalization and punctuation. Let’s explore each aspect in detail with examples:

In MLA style, book titles are put in italics to make them stand out from the rest of the text.

Titles of shorter works, such as articles or chapters, are enclosed in quotation marks.

Example 1: Italicized Book Title

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby .

Example 2: Book Chapter (In Quotation Marks)

Smith, John. “The Art of Persuasion.” Essays on Rhetoric.

Capitalization

In MLA style, follows the title case. It means keep the first letter of each word capital. Capitalize articles, conjunctions, and prepositions only if they are the first or last words in title.

Example 3: Correct Capitalization

Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird.

Punctuation

In MLA style, there should be no special punctuation like colons or periods between the main title and any subtitles. However, if the book’s title includes a subtitle, a colon should separate it from the main title.

Example 4: Book Title with Subtitle

Gladwell, Malcolm. Outliers: The Story of Success.

Edition and Volume Numbers

To refer to a certain book edition, add the edition number after the book title. If the book is part of a multi-volume work, indicate the volume number after the title as well.

Example 5: Edition and Volume Numbers

Johnson, Mary. Chemistry in Focus. 2nd ed.

Smith, Adam. The Wealth of Nations. Vol. 1.

Translated Titles

If the book you are citing is translated from another language, include the original title and the translator’s name in the citation.

Example 6: Translated Title

Kafka, Franz. The Metamorphosis. Translated by David Wyllie.

It’s important to remember that MLA style is always changing and being updated. So always refer to the latest edition of the MLA Handbook or your institution’s writing guidelines.

Formatting Book Titles in APA Style

Usually the social sciences disciplines use APA (American Psychological Association) style. Let’s look at how you must consider capitalization, punctuation and italics in this writing style.

Just capitalize the first word of any subtitles and proper nouns.

All other words, such as articles (a, an, the), conjunctions (and, but, or), and prepositions (in, on, at), are in lowercase.

Example 1: 

“The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business”

In APA style, book titles are italicized to distinguish them from the rest of the text.

Do not italicize titles of shorter works, such as articles or chapters. Just enclose them in quotation marks.

Example 2: Italics

Here’s an example of an italicized book title:

The Catcher in the Rye

In APA style, there should be a colon (:) between the main title and any subtitle.

When citing a book title within the text of your paper, use title case and italicize it.

When including book titles in your reference list, use sentence case and italicize it.

Example 3: Punctuation

Here’s an example of proper punctuation and citation within the text and reference list:

In-text citation

According to Smith (2019),  The Theory of Everything  provides an in-depth analysis of astrophysics.

Reference list citation

Smith, J. (2019).  the theory of everything . Publisher.

Include the edition number in parentheses right after the book title when a book has a specific edition.

If a book is part of a multi-volume work, you can also indicate the volume number after the title.

Example 4: Parenthesis

Here are examples of how to format book titles with edition and volume numbers:

Edition Number

Johnson, M. (2022). Chemistry in Focus (2nd ed.).

Volume Number

Smith, A. (2021). History of the United States (Vol. 3).

Include the translator’s name in square brackets if you cite a translated book. 

Example 5: Translated Thesis 

Here’s an example of how to format a translated book title:

Kundera, M. (1984). The Unbearable Lightness of Being [Original title: Nesnesitelná lehkost bytí].

Translated by M. Henry.

Formatting Book Titles in Chicago Style

The Chicago Manual of Style is mostly used in the humanities and social sciences disciplines. Chicago style follows two systems, namely Author-Date System and the notes and bibliography system. Let’s explore both of them.

Author-Date System

In the author-date system, you include:

• In-text citations with the author’s last name
• The publication year
• A corresponding entry in the reference list

Italicization

In the author-date system, book titles are italicized. It makes them Distinguish from other elements in the citation.

Chicago style uses a title case for book titles in the author-date system. It means the first letter of the title, subtitles, and any major words are capitalized.

There should be a period at the end of the full book citation in the reference list.

Example 1: In-Text Citation

Example 2: Reference List Citation

Smith, John. 2019.  The Theory of Everything . Publisher.

Notes and Bibliography System

You use footnotes or endnotes in the notes and bibliography system for in-text citations and a bibliography for the full list of references.

Similar to the author-date system, book titles are italicized in the notes and bibliography system.

In the notes and bibliography system, the Chicago style uses headline-style capitalization for book titles. It means that the first letter of the first and last words of the title are capitalized.

Put a period at the end of each full bibliographic entry in the notes and bibliography system.

Example 3: Footnote/Endnote Citation

John Smith,  The Theory of Everything  (Publisher, 2019), 25.

Example 4: Bibliography Citation

Smith, John.  The Theory of Everything . Publisher, 2019.

You may include the edition number after the title, and for multi-volume works, the volume number after the title.

Example 5: Edition Number

Johnson, Mary.  Chemistry in Focus . 2nd ed.

Example 6: Volume Number

Smith, Adam.  The Wealth of Nations . Vol. 1.

For translated works, include the original title and the translator’s name in the citation.

Example 7: Translated Title

Kafka, Franz.  The Metamorphosis . Translated by David Wyllie.

Citation of Book Titles in Other Situations

Let’s highlight some unusual circumstances of including a title of book in essay. Starting with:

Book titles within quotations

If you’re citing a direct quote from a book in your essay, you may need to put the book title in quotes. Generally, you should use double quotation marks for this.

For example:

According to Mark Twain, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”

In the novel 1984, George Orwell explores the theme of government surveillance through the famous line, “Big Brother is watching you.”

By using double quotation marks, you indicate that the words within the quotation marks are taken directly from the book.

Book Titles in Footnotes or Endnotes

In academic writing, footnotes or endnotes can be added to give extra info or credits. When including book titles, how you format them depends on the citation style you’re using.

In Chicago Style, book titles in footnotes or endnotes should usually be italicized or in quotation marks.

For Example:

Jane Austen,  Pride and Prejudice  (New York: Penguin Classics, 2002), 45.

Harper Lee,  To Kill a Mockingbird , (New York: Harper Perennial, 2006), 77.

Handling Foreign language book titles

Follow these rules for citing a book in a foreign language. You should keep the original language title, especially if it’s a popular work.

Italicize the foreign language book title following the same guidelines as you would for an English book title. Include a translation in parentheses if necessary.

Use the original foreign language title in sentence case without italics or quotation marks. Include a translation in brackets if needed.

Italicize or use quotation marks for foreign language book titles, following the same guidelines as you would for an English book title. Include a translation if required.

Special Cases

In certain situations, you might need to format book titles differently. Like if you’re talking about a poem or play. These types of works have their own rules for formatting titles. Let’s get to know them briefly. 

Typically, you’d put poem titles in quotation marks and longer pieces of poetry, like epics, in italics. It’s worth checking the style guide you’re using, though, since the rules can vary.

You’ll usually see the title written in italics when it comes to plays. The names of characters or speakers within the play are usually written with a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, without quotation marks.

Best Practices for Including Book Titles in Essays

Double-check formatting guidelines.

It’s super important to double-check the formatting rules for book titles when writing an essay since each style guide has its own rules. You need to make sure you’re following them properly.

Proofreading for Accuracy and Consistency

Look out for mistakes in how you’ve done the capitals, italics, and quotes. Double-check any extra rules that might apply to foreign language books, poems, plays, and other special cases.

Seek Assistance from Style Guides or Writing Resources

It’s a good idea to get help from style guides or writing tools when you are stuck with citations. You can also buy cheap essay from a well-reputed writing services provider.

It’s super important to get book titles in essays right. Not just for clarity but also to show you’re a pro. Ensure that you stick to the accurate style guide. It could be MLA, APA, or Chicago. Plus, there are special rules for poems and more.

Furthermore, if you need a professional to help you out with citations, do count on the expertise of  our writers . They are always available to get you out of your troubles of how to write book titles in essays.

Do I need to include book titles in my essay?

How do i format book titles in mla style, should i italicize or use quotation marks for book titles in apa style.

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Frequently asked questions

How do you write a book title in mla.

In MLA style , book titles appear in italics, with all major words capitalized. If there is a subtitle, separate it from the main title with a colon and a space (even if no colon appears in the source). For example:

The format is the same in the Works Cited list and in the text itself. However, when you mention the book title in the text, you don’t have to include the subtitle.

The title of a part of a book—such as a chapter, or a short story or poem in a collection—is not italicized, but instead placed in quotation marks.

Frequently asked questions: MLA Style

In MLA style , footnotes or endnotes can be used to provide additional information that would interrupt the flow of your text.

This can be further examples or developments of ideas you only briefly discuss in the text. You can also use notes to provide additional sources or explain your citation practice.

You don’t have to use any notes at all; only use them to provide relevant information that complements your arguments or helps the reader to understand them.

No, you should use parenthetical MLA in-text citations to cite sources. Footnotes or endnotes can be used to add extra information that doesn’t fit into your main text, but they’re not needed for citations.

If you need to cite a lot of sources at the same point in the text, though, placing these citations in a note can be a good way to avoid cluttering your text.

According to MLA format guidelines, the Works Cited page(s) should look like this:

• Running head containing your surname and the page number.
• The title, Works Cited, centered and in plain text.
• List of sources alphabetized by the author’s surname.
• Left-aligned.
• Double-spaced.
• 1-inch margins.
• Hanging indent applied to all entries.

The MLA Works Cited lists every source that you cited in your paper. Each entry contains the author , title , and publication details of the source.

No, in an MLA annotated bibliography , you can write short phrases instead of full sentences to keep your annotations concise. You can still choose to use full sentences instead, though.

Use full sentences in your annotations if your instructor requires you to, and always use full sentences in the main text of your paper .

If you’re working on a group project and therefore need to list multiple authors for your paper , MLA recommends against including a normal header . Instead, create a separate title page .

On the title page, list each author on a separate line, followed by the other usual information from the header: Instructor, course name and number, and submission date. Then write the title halfway down the page, centered, and start the text of the paper itself on the next page.

Usually, no title page is needed in an MLA paper . A header is generally included at the top of the first page instead. The exceptions are when:

• Your instructor requires one, or
• Your paper is a group project

In those cases, you should use a title page instead of a header, listing the same information but on a separate page.

When an online source (e.g. web page , blog post) doesn’t list a publication date , you should instead list an access date .

Unlike a publication date, this appears at the end of your MLA Works Cited entry, after the URL, e.g. “A Complete Guide to MLA Style.” Scribbr , www.scribbr.com/category/mla/. Accessed 28 Mar. 2021 .

For offline sources with no publication date shown, don’t use an access date—just leave out the date.

The level of detail you provide in a publication date in your Works Cited list depends on the type of source and the information available. Generally, follow the lead of the source—if it gives the full date, give the full date; if it gives just the year, so should you.

Books usually list the year, whereas web pages tend to give a full date. For journal articles , give the year, month and year, or season and year, depending on what information is available. Check our citation examples if you’re unsure about a particular source type.

In an MLA Works Cited list , the names of months with five or more letters are abbreviated to the first three letters, followed by a period. For example, abbreviate Feb., Mar., Apr., but not June, July.

In the main text, month names should never be abbreviated.

In your MLA Works Cited list , dates are always written in day-month-year order, with the month abbreviated if it’s five or more letters long, e.g. 5 Mar. 2018.

In the main text, you’re free to use either day-month-year or month-day-year order, as long as you use one or the other consistently. Don’t abbreviate months in the main text, and use numerals for dates, e.g. 5 March 2018 or March 5, 2018.

In most standard dictionaries , no author is given for either the overall dictionary or the individual entries, so no author should be listed in your MLA citations.

Instead, start your Works Cited entry and your MLA in-text citation with the title of the entry you’re citing (i.e. the word that’s being defined), in quotation marks.

If you cite a specialist dictionary that does list an author and/or overall editor, these should be listed in the same way as they would for other citations of books or book chapters .

Some source types, such as books and journal articles , may contain footnotes (or endnotes) with additional information. The following rules apply when citing information from a note in an MLA in-text citation :

• To cite information from a single numbered note, write “n” after the page number, and then write the note number, e.g. (Smith 105n2)
• To cite information from multiple numbered notes, write “nn” and include a range, e.g. (Smith 77nn1–2)
• To cite information from an unnumbered note, write “un” after the page number, with a space in between, e.g. (Jones 250 un)

If you cite multiple Shakespeare plays throughout your paper, the MLA in-text citation begins with an abbreviated version of the title (as shown here ), e.g. ( Oth. 1.2.4). Each play should have its own  Works Cited entry (even if they all come from the same collection).

If you cite only one Shakespeare play in your paper, you should include a Works Cited entry for that play, and your in-text citations should start with the author’s name , e.g. (Shakespeare 1.1.4).

No, do not use page numbers in your MLA in-text citations of Shakespeare plays . Instead, specify the act, scene, and line numbers of the quoted material, separated by periods, e.g. (Shakespeare 3.2.20–25).

This makes it easier for the reader to find the relevant passage in any edition of the text.

When an article (e.g. in a newspaper ) appears on non-consecutive pages (e.g. starting on page 1 and continuing on page 6), you should use “pp.” in your Works Cited entry, since it’s on multiple pages, but MLA recommends just listing the first page followed by a plus sign, e.g. pp. 1+.

In an MLA style Works Cited entry for a newspaper , you can cite a local newspaper in the same way as you would a national one, except that you may have to add the name of the city in square brackets to clarify what newspaper you mean, e.g. The Gazette [Montreal].

Do not add the city name in brackets if it’s already part of the newspaper’s name, e.g. Dallas Observer .

MLA doesn’t require you to list an author for a TV show . If your citation doesn’t focus on a particular contributor, just start your Works Cited entry with the title of the episode or series, and use this (shortened if necessary) in your MLA in-text citation .

If you focus on a particular contributor (e.g. the writer or director, a particular actor), you can list them in the author position , along with a label identifying their role.

It’s standard to list the podcast’s host in the author position , accompanied by the label “host,” in an MLA Works Cited entry. It’s sometimes more appropriate to use the label “narrator,” when the podcast just tells a story without any guests.

If your citation of the podcast focuses more on the contribution of someone else (e.g. a guest, the producer), they can be listed in the author position instead, with an appropriate label.

MLA recommends citing the original source wherever possible, rather than the source in which it is quoted or reproduced.

If this isn’t possible, cite the secondary source and use “qtd. in” (quoted in) in your MLA in-text citation . For example: (qtd. in Smith 233)

If a source is reproduced in full within another source (e.g. an image within a PowerPoint  or a poem in an article ), give details of the original source first, then include details of the secondary source as a container. For example:

When you want to cite a PowerPoint or lecture notes from a lecture you viewed in person in MLA , check whether they can also be accessed online ; if so, this is the best version to cite, as it allows the reader to access the source.

If the material is not available online, use the details of where and when the presentation took place.

In an MLA song citation , you need to give some sort of container to indicate how you accessed the song. If this is a physical or downloaded album, the Works Cited entry should list the album name, distributor, year, and format.

However, if you listened to the song on a streaming service, you can just list the site as a container, including a URL. In this case, including the album details is optional; you may add this information if it is relevant to your discussion or if it will help the reader access the song.

When citing a song in MLA style , the author is usually the main artist or group that released the song.

However, if your discussion focuses on the contributions of a specific performer, e.g. a guitarist or singer, you may list them as author, even if they are not the main artist. If you’re discussing the lyrics or composition, you may cite the songwriter or composer rather than a performer.

When a source has no title , this part of your MLA reference is replaced with a description of the source, in plain text (no italics or quotation marks, sentence-case capitalization).

Whenever you refer to an image created by someone else in your text, you should include a citation leading the reader to the image you’re discussing.

If you include the image directly in your text as a figure , the details of the source appear in the figure’s caption. If you don’t, just include an MLA in-text citation wherever you mention the image, and an entry in the Works Cited list giving full details.

In MLA Style , you should cite a specific chapter or work within a book in two situations:

• When each of the book’s chapters is written by a different author.
• When the book is a collection of self-contained works (such as poems , plays , or short stories ), even if they are all written by the same author.

If you cite multiple chapters or works from the same book, include a separate Works Cited entry for each chapter.

If a source has no author, start the MLA Works Cited entry with the source title . Use a shortened version of the title in your MLA in-text citation .

If a source has no page numbers, you can use an alternative locator (e.g. a chapter number, or a timestamp for a video or audio source) to identify the relevant passage in your in-text citation. If the source has no numbered divisions, cite only the author’s name (or the title).

If you already named the author or title in your sentence, and there is no locator available, you don’t need a parenthetical citation:

• Rajaram  argues that representations of migration are shaped by “cultural, political, and ideological interests.”
• The homepage of The Correspondent describes it as “a movement for radically different news.”

If a source has two authors, name both authors in your MLA in-text citation and Works Cited entry. If there are three or more authors, name only the first author, followed by et al.

You must include an MLA in-text citation every time you quote or paraphrase from a source (e.g. a book , movie , website , or article ).

MLA Style  is the second most used citation style (after APA ). It is mainly used by students and researchers in humanities fields such as literature, languages, and philosophy.

If information about your source is not available, you can either leave it out of the MLA citation or replace it with something else, depending on the type of information.

• No author : Start with the source title.
• No title : Provide a description of the source.
• No date : Provide an access date for online sources; omit for other sources.

A standard MLA Works Cited entry  is structured as follows:

Only include information that is available for and relevant to your source.

Yes. MLA style uses title case, which means that all principal words (nouns, pronouns , verbs, adjectives , adverbs , and some conjunctions ) are capitalized.

This applies to titles of sources as well as the title of, and subheadings in, your paper. Use MLA capitalization style even when the original source title uses different capitalization .

The title of an article is not italicized in MLA style , but placed in quotation marks. This applies to articles from journals , newspapers , websites , or any other publication. Use italics for the title of the source where the article was published. For example:

Use the same formatting in the Works Cited entry and when referring to the article in the text itself.

In MLA style citations , format a DOI as a link, including “https://doi.org/” at the start and then the unique numerical code of the article.

DOIs are used mainly when citing journal articles in MLA .

The MLA Handbook is currently in its 9th edition , published in 2021.

This quick guide to MLA style  explains the latest guidelines for citing sources and formatting papers according to MLA.

The fastest and most accurate way to create MLA citations is by using Scribbr’s MLA Citation Generator .

Search by book title, page URL, or journal DOI to automatically generate flawless citations, or cite manually using the simple citation forms.

MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman , since it’s easy to read and installed on every computer. Other standard fonts such as Arial or Georgia are also acceptable. If in doubt, check with your supervisor which font you should be using.

To create a correctly formatted block quote in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:

• Hit Enter at the beginning and end of the quote.
• Highlight the quote and select the Layout menu.
• On the Indent tab, change the left indent to 0.5″.

Do not put quotation marks around the quote, and make sure to include an MLA in-text citation after the period at the end.

To format a block quote in MLA:

• Introduce the quote with a colon and set it on a new line.
• Indent the whole quote 0.5 inches from the left margin.
• Place the MLA in-text citation after the period at the end of the block quote.

Then continue your text on a new line (not indented).

In MLA style , if you quote more than four lines from a source, use MLA block quote formatting .

If you are quoting poetry , use block quote formatting for any quote longer than three lines.

An MLA in-text citation should always include the author’s last name, either in the introductory text or in parentheses after a quote .

If line numbers or page numbers are included in the original source, add these to the citation.

If you are discussing multiple poems by the same author, make sure to also mention the title of the poem (shortened if necessary). The title goes in quotation marks .

In the list of Works Cited , start with the poet’s name and the poem’s title in quotation marks. The rest of the citation depends on where the poem was published.

If you read the poem in a book or anthology, follow the format of an MLA book chapter citation . If you accessed the poem online, follow the format of an MLA website citation .

Only use line numbers in an MLA in-text citation if the lines are numbered in the original source. If so, write “lines” in the first citation of the poem , and only the numbers in subsequent citations.

If there are no line numbers in the source, you can use page numbers instead. If the poem appears on only one page of a book (or on a website ), don’t include a number in the citation.

To quote poetry in MLA style , introduce the quote and use quotation marks as you would for any other source quotation .

If the quote includes line breaks, mark these using a forward slash with a space on either side. Use two slashes to indicate a stanza break.

If the quote is longer than three lines, set them off from the main text as an MLA block quote . Reproduce the line breaks, punctuation, and formatting of the original.

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Q. How do I refer to a book by title in-text in APA format?

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Answered By: Gabe Gossett Last Updated: Jun 22, 2023     Views: 646430

The basic format for an in-text citation is: Title of the Book (Author Last Name, year).

One author: Where the Wild Things Are (Sendak, 1963) is a depiction of a child coping with his anger towards his mom.

Two authors (cite both names every time): Brabant and Mooney (1986) have used the comic strip to examine evidence of sex role stereotyping. OR The comic strip has been used to examine evidence of sex role stereotyping (Brabant & Mooney, 1986).

Three or more authors (cite the first author plus et al.): Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy (Clare et al., 2016) depicts a young man's experience at the Shadowhunter Academy, a place where being a former vampire is looked down upon.OR Clare et al. (2016) have crafted a unique story about a young man's journey to find himself.

No author: Cite the first few words of the reference entry (usually the title) and the year. Use double quotation marks around the title of an article or chapter, and italicize the title of a periodical, book, brochure, or report. Examples: From the book Study Guide (2000) ... or ("Reading," 1999).

Note: Titles of periodicals, books, brochures, or reports should be in italics and use normal title capitalization rules.

If you are citing multiple sources by multiple authors in-text, you can list all of them by the author's last name and year of publication within the same set of parentheses, separated by semicolons.

Example: (Adams, 1999; Jones & James, 2000; Miller, 1999)

For more information on how to cite books in-text and as a reference entry, see the APA Publication Manual (7th edition) Section 10.2 on pages 321-325 .

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Comments (13)

• This was very useful for me! I was having a really hard time finding information on how to mention an article title AND the author in text in APA so this was very helpful!!! by Ryan Waddell on Jun 27, 2019
• If I just mention that I used a book to teach a topic do I have to include it in the reference list? by Franw on Oct 17, 2019
• @Franw, if it is a source that informs your paper in any way, or if your reader would have reason to look it up, then you should include a full reference list entry for the book. by Gabe [Research & Writing Studio] on Oct 18, 2019
• Maybe I'm misunderstanding the question, but I think the OP is asking how to refer to a book title, not how to cite one. I believe APA uses quotation marks around book titles and MLA uses italics. by AB on Dec 12, 2019
• @AB: The first sentence has been tweaked to clarify title of book usage, reflecting the examples given. For APA style you should use italics for book titles. It would be quotation marks. by Gabe [Research & Writing Studio] on Dec 12, 2019
• Hi, can any one help me with in-text-citation of this, how can i cite it in the text Panel, I. L. (2002). Digital transformation: A framework for ICT literacy. Educational Testing Service, 1-53. by Milad on Aug 20, 2021
• @Milad: In that case it would be (Panel, 2002). If you are quoting, or otherwise choosing to include page numbers, put a comma after the year, then p. and the page number(s). by Gabe Gossett on Aug 20, 2021
• Hey, I'm a little bit curious, what if I'm mentioning a book and paraphrasing it but still want to give credit. Would I put the information into parenthesis instead? Like: Paraphrased info. ("Title in Italics" Author, year) by Kai on Sep 14, 2023
• @Kai: Apologies for not seeing your question sooner! (Our academic year has not started yet). If I am understanding your question correctly, what I suggest is referring to the book title in the narrative of your writing, rather than in the in-text citation. I do not see an examples of using a book title in an in-text citation except for rare circumstances including citing a classic religious text or using the title when there is no author information because it is the start of your reference list entry. Basically, APA's in-text convention is supposed to make it easy for your reader to locate the source being cited in the reference list. So the first part of the in-text citation, usually authors, comes first to locate it alphabetically. Putting the book title first when you have an author name can throw that off. by Gabe Gossett on Sep 21, 2023
• Perhaps this is along the lines of the response to Kai - Can you reference a book title as a common point of social understanding to demonstrate a common concept? Is official citing required if you use widely known titles such as "Where's Waldo" and "Who Moved My Cheese?" to make a point of illustration? by Chez Renee on Sep 30, 2023
• @Chez: Aside from some classical religious texts, if it is a published book, I'd try to make sure that it is appropriately cited for APA style. That said, I think I understand where it gets tricky with things like Where's Waldo, since that is a series of books and stating "Where's Waldo" is a cultural reference many people would understand, though you can't reasonably cite the entire series. I don't believe that APA gives guidance for this particular issue. If it is being referred to in order to back up a claim, it would help to cite a particular book. If not, then it might work to use a statement such as, "Hanford's Where's Waldo series . . ." by Gabe Gossett on Oct 02, 2023
• How to cite a dissertation thesis in apa form? by Elizabeth on Feb 05, 2024
• @Elizabeth: For citing a dissertation or thesis you can check out our page answering that here https://askus.library.wwu.edu/faq/153308 by Gabe Gossett on Feb 05, 2024

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How to Write a Book Title and Author in an Essay?

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So, you’re writing an essay, and you’re referencing a book. But how on earth do you write and cite the title and the author’s name correctly?

Do you use quotation marks? Italics? Punctuation? And what about capitalization?

The answer is a little more complicated than you might think. It all depends on the style of essay you’re writing, but once you’ve familiarized yourself with the rules for each one, it’s easy to mention and cite any book title and author’s name correctly, so you can get top marks from your instructor, each and every time.

Table of Contents

The Correct Way to Write a Book’s Title And Author in an Essay

In this post, we’ll look at the three most common essay formats used in the US and learn how to properly display book titles and author names in each one.

The Most Popular Essay Formats

The three most commonly used essay formats found in schools, universities, and higher education institutions across America are known as APA, MLA, and Chicago style.

The format your professor assigns will depend on the subject matter, the department, the purpose of the essay, and the instructor’s individual preferences.

APA stands for the American Psychological Association. This is the go-to format for scientific essays, including many social and behavioural sciences.

MLA stands for Modern Language Association and is the most frequently used format in humanities and liberal arts subjects, such as literature and history.

Chicago format, also known as Turabian after its creator, Kate L. Turabian, is commonly used in the publishing world and also in subjects such as anthropology, history, and selected social sciences.

Why is Using The Correct Format so Important?

The short answer is that you’ll receive a lower grade if you don’t.

But of course, there are many good reasons why proper formatting is important when writing papers and essays.

1. Consistency

Formats like APA, MLA, and Chicago provide a strict set of criteria to stick to throughout an essay, ensuring consistency.

Consistency avoids confusion for the reader and helps them to quickly and easily identify what the writer is trying to say.

2. References And Research

Sticking with one style or format makes it easier for readers to check citations and conduct further research into the chosen topic.

3. Demonstrating Understanding

In academic settings, adhering to a particular style guide, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, demonstrates your understanding of the rules and principles of written material within that field.

This shows that you don’t just understand the subject; you also know how to write about it.

4. Preparation For Future Studies

Suppose you’re a high school student or a college undergrad, familiarizing yourself with the basic principles of essay formatting. In that case, it is a great way to prepare yourself for your future academic pursuits, especially if you plan to progress onto a graduate or postgraduate program.

How to Write a Book’s Title in The Main Body of an APA Style Essay?

Here are the key rules to remember when writing book titles in the main body of an APA-style essay:

• Use quotation marks (not italics) on either side of the book’s title (with the exception of the holy texts like the Bible and reference works like dictionaries and almanacs).
• The first word of the title should be capitalized.
• All words and terms containing more than four letters or symbols should be capitalized.
• Any two-part words containing a hyphen should be capitalized.
• Words placed directly after a colon or dash should also be capitalized.

For example, “Slaughterhouse-Five”

How to Write a Book’s Title in The Main Body of an MLA or Chicago Style Essay?

MLA and Chicago-style essays use similar rules when it comes to mentioning book titles in the main body of an essay. Here are the key things to remember when using either of these formats:

• The book’s title should be displayed in italics (not quotation marks), with the exception of holy texts like the Bible.
• If the title contains punctuation, this should be italicized, too.
• All verbs, nouns, and adjectives should be capitalized.
• If you’re referring to a chapter or mentioning a book alongside the series it belongs to, use quotation marks, not italics.

For example,

O ne Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey, or “A Clash of Kings” from A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin

1. Avoid Capitalizing Minor Words

Unless they appear as the first word in a title, the following words should be displayed in lowercase.

• Prepositions , such as on, in, at, and from.
• Articles , such as the, a, and an.
• Coordinating conjunctions , such as so, and, yet, but, and for.

This might sound a little complex at first, but it’s pretty simple and intuitive once you get the hang of it.

99% of the time, the book’s title as it is displayed on the front cover is correct for both MLA and Chicago-style essays.

How to Write a Book’s Title in The Main Body of a Handwritten Essay?

Handwritten essays used to be the norm, but these days, they’re most definitely the exception.

Still, there may be some instances where you’re asked to handwrite an essay rather than type it, in which case, you should follow the rules below.

1. Capitalization

The capitalization rules for writing book titles in the main body of a handwritten essay are the same as with typed essays.

So, if you’re handwriting an APA-style essay, make sure to capitalize the first letter of the first word in the title and do the same for every word containing more than four letters.

And when handwriting an MLA or Chicago-style essay, capitalize the first letter of the first word of the title and do the same for every word except for articles, prepositions, or coordinating conjunctions.

2. Underlining

No matter the format, book titles should always be underlined when handwriting an essay

• Underline the complete title, including any words that come after a colon or dash
• Underline any punctuation that appears in the book’s title
• Avoid underlining each word separately; always use one continuous line
• Make your line as straight as possible by using a ruler or following the line on the paper

How to Cite a Book And its Author in a References or Works Cited Page?

So, now you know how to write the title of a book mentioned in the body of an essay.

But what do you do when you need to cite a book and its author in your references or works cited page?

To keep it simple, I’ll use Lucy Maud Montgomery’s 1908 classic children’s novel , Anne of Green Gables, as an example for each essay style.

1. Book Citations in APA Style

Here’s the proper format for citing authors and their book titles in APA:

Last Name, First Names. (Year the book was published). Book title .

For example, Montgomery, Lucy Maud. (1908). Anne of Green Gables.

2. Book Citations in MLA Style

Here’s the proper format for citing authors and their book titles in MLA:

Last Name, First Names. Book title . City of Publication, Publisher, Year the book was published.

Note: You only need to include the city of publication if the book was published before 1900 or if the publisher is not based in the US.

For example, Montgomery, Lucy Maud. Anne of Green Gables. L.C. Page & Co., 1908.

3. Book Citations in Chicago Style

Here’s the proper format for citing authors and their book titles in Chicago style:

Last Name, First Names. Book Title: Subtitle . City of publication: Publisher, Year the book was published.

Note: Just like with MLA style, you only need to include the city of publication if the book was published before 1900 or if the publisher is not based in the US.

For example, Montgomery, Lucy Maud. Anne of Green Gables . L.C. Page & Co., 1908.

4. Book Citations in a Hand Written Essay

If you’re handwriting an essay, you’ll no doubt be handwriting your references or works cited page, too.

In this case, you should still follow the appropriate formatting rules above in relation to the chosen essay style.

But where a title appears in italics in a printed essay, in a handwritten essay, it should be neatly underlined instead.

Missing Information

If you’ve searched high and low for a book’s publisher, publication date, or the city in which it was published, but you still can’t find the information, it’s generally acceptable to leave it out.

Essay writing is a skill that takes practice, and at first, the rules and principles of the different formats can seem complex. This is especially true when you’re writing about books and their authors or citing other people’s work.

But hopefully, this post has helped explain the structures used in each of the most commonly used formats so that next time you write an essay, you can be confident that you’re doing it right.

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The best books to improve your essay writing skills.

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Unlock your full potential as a writer with the help of these invaluable resources.

Explore the Best Books

Ready to take your essay writing skills to the next level? Dive into our curated selection of the best books for essay writing. These invaluable resources cover a wide range of topics and techniques to help you become a masterful essay writer.

• The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White : A timeless classic that provides practical guidance on grammar, style, and composition.
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• They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing by Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein : Master the art of engaging with academic sources and constructing persuasive arguments.
• Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott : Gain insights on the creative process and overcome writer’s block.
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Explore these essential books to enhance your essay writing abilities and stand out as a confident and articulate writer. Happy reading and happy writing!

Discover Top Writers

Looking to be inspired by some of the best writers in the world? Our collection of top writers includes renowned authors like J.K. Rowling, George Orwell, Jane Austen, and more. Dive into their works to explore different writing styles, techniques, and storytelling methods.

Find your favorite authors and study their essays to learn how they captivate readers with their words. Whether you’re a novice writer or seasoned professional, exploring the works of top writers can help enhance your own writing skills and ignite your creativity.

Discover the magic of storytelling through the eyes of these esteemed writers and unlock the secrets to crafting compelling essays. With the guidance of top writers, you’ll be able to elevate your writing to new heights and create essays that leave a lasting impact on your readers.

Enhance Your Skills

Are you looking to take your essay writing skills to the next level? Our selection of the best books for essay writing will help you enhance your writing techniques and improve your overall writing proficiency. Whether you are a student looking to boost your academic performance or a professional seeking to refine your communication skills, these books offer valuable insights and practical tips to help you become a more effective writer.

Develop Your Style: Discover how to develop a unique writing style that reflects your personality and engages your readers. Learn how to effectively use language, tone, and structure to make your writing stand out.

Master Essay Structures: Explore different essay structures and formats to enhance the organization and clarity of your writing. From persuasive essays to analytical pieces, these books provide guidelines to help you structure your arguments effectively.

Refine Your Research Skills: Improve your research skills and learn how to gather, analyze, and incorporate evidence into your essays. Enhance the credibility and depth of your writing by conducting thorough research and citing reputable sources.

Invest in your writing skills today with the best books for essay writing and see a significant improvement in your writing proficiency!

Master Your Techniques

Deep Dive into Essay Writing

Essay writing is an essential skill that can greatly enhance your academic and professional success. By mastering the art of essay writing, you can effectively communicate your ideas, opinions, and arguments in a clear and concise manner.

Here are some key tips to help you excel in essay writing:

By implementing these strategies and practicing regularly, you can enhance your essay writing skills and become a more effective communicator. Explore the best books for essay writing to further refine your techniques and unlock your full potential.

Unlock Your Creativity

Unleash your imagination and expand your creative horizons with the best books for essay writing. Dive into a world of inspiration and learn how to express your thoughts and ideas in new and innovative ways.

Discover the power of storytelling and the art of persuasion as you explore the depths of your creativity. With the guidance of expert writers and teachers, you will develop your unique voice and style that will set you apart from the rest.

• Explore different writing techniques to enhance your essays
• Learn how to structure your ideas effectively
• Find inspiration in classic and contemporary works
• Master the art of critical thinking and analysis

Whether you are a student looking to improve your academic writing or a professional seeking to enhance your communication skills, these books will help you unlock your creativity and become a more confident and persuasive writer.

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Essay on Books for Students and Children

500 Words Essay on Books

Books are referred to as a man’s best friend . They are very beneficial for mankind and have helped it evolve. There is a powerhouse of information and knowledge. Books offer us so many things without asking for anything in return. Books leave a deep impact on us and are responsible for uplifting our mood.

This is why we suggest children read books from an early age to gain knowledge. The best part about books is that there are various types of books. One can read any type to gain different types of knowledge. Reading must be done by people of all ages. It not only widens our thinking but also enhances our vocabulary.

Different Genres of Books

There are different genres of books available for book readers. Every day, thousands of books are released in the market ranging from travel books to fictional books. We can pick any book of our interest to expand our knowledge and enjoy the reading experience.

Firstly, we have travel books, which tell us about the experience of various travelers. They introduce us to different places in the world without moving from our place. It gives us traveling tips which we can use in the future. Then, we have history books which state historical events. They teach about the eras and how people lived in times gone by.

Furthermore, we have technology books that teach us about technological developments and different equipment. You can also read fashion and lifestyle books to get up to date with the latest trends in the fashion industry.

Most importantly, there are self-help books and motivational books . These books help in the personality development of an individual. They inspire us to do well in life and also bring a positive change in ourselves. Finally, we have fictional books. They are based on the writer’s imagination and help us in enhancing our imagination too. They are very entertaining and keep us intrigued until the very end.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Benefits of Reading Books

There are not one but various advantages of reading books. To begin with, it improves our knowledge on a variety of subjects. Moreover, it makes us wiser. When we learn different things, we learn to deal with them differently too. Similarly, books also keep us entertained. They kill our boredom and give us great company when we are alone.

Furthermore, books help us to recognize our areas of interest. They also determine our career choice to a great extent. Most importantly, books improve our vocabulary . We learn new words from it and that widens our vocabulary. In addition, books boost our creativity. They help us discover a completely new side.

In other words, books make us more fluent in languages. They enhance our writing skills too. Plus, we become more confident after the knowledge of books. They help us in debating, public speaking , quizzes and more.

In short, books give us a newer perspective and gives us a deeper understanding of things. It impacts our personality positively as well. Thus, we see how books provide us with so many benefits. We should encourage everyone to read more books and useless phones.

FAQs on Books

Q.1 State the different genres of books.

A.1 Books come in different genres. Some of them are travel books, history books, technology books, fashion and lifestyle books, self-help books, motivational books, and fictional books.

Q.2 Why are books important?

A.2 Books are of great importance to mankind. They enhance our knowledge and vocabulary. They keep us entertained and also widen our perspective. This, in turn, makes us more confident and wise.

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The Complete College Essay Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing the Personal Statement and the Supplemental Essays Paperback – July 19, 2021

Want to write memorable college application essays in less time, with less stress? This book will guide you through the process, with hands-on activities, practical tips, and tons of real application essays—personal statements and supplemental essays—by real students!

Finally—the book you’ve been waiting for! The Complete College Essay Handbook demystifies the entire college essay writing process with easy-to-follow directions and hands-on activities that have worked for hundreds of students. Maschal, a former admissions officer, and Wood, a professional writer and writing teacher, draw on their combined expertise to help students craft a successful set of application essays for every school on their list. Supplemental essays in particular can seem overwhelming—some schools ask students to write as many as six essays in addition to the personal statement. Maschal and Wood identify four types of supplemental essays, walking students through how to write each one and then how to recycle these essays for other schools.

The Complete College Essay Handbook walks students through:

• What makes an essay stand out, drawing on sample essays by real students to illustrate main points
• Brainstorming activities to find the best topics for the personal statement and supplemental essays
• How to write the two central components of every application essay: scene and reflection
• Editing and revision—including techniques to cut down or expand an essay to hit the word limit
• The four types of supplemental essays and how to decode the different essay prompts, using actual essay questions
• The strategy behind a well-rounded set of application essays

The Complete College Essay Handbook is a no-frills, practical guide that will give students the confidence and know-how they need to craft the best essays for every single school on their list—in less time and with less stress.

This book is for students, high school teachers and counselors, parents, and anyone else who wants to help students through the college essay writing process.

• Print length 212 pages
• Language English
• Publication date July 19, 2021
• Dimensions 6 x 0.48 x 9 inches
• ISBN-10 173731598X
• ISBN-13 978-1737315988
• See all details

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ 1 (July 19, 2021)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 212 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 173731598X
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1737315988
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 12.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.48 x 9 inches
• #350 in College Guides (Books)
• #512 in College Entrance Test Guides (Books)

About the author

Brittany maschal.

Dr. Brittany Maschal is the founder of Brittany Maschal Consulting, LLC, an educational consulting firm that works with students applying to college and graduate school.

Brittany has held positions in admissions and student services at the University of Pennsylvania at Penn Law and The Wharton School; Princeton University (undergraduate) and the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs; and the Johns Hopkins University-Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). She has served on admissions committees with American Councils for International Education and International Research and Exchanges Board; as an invited speaker to numerous community programs in the US and abroad; and as an alumni interviewer and admissions representative for the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. Brittany was also an Executive Board member and Membership Director of the Penn GSE Alumni Association.

Brittany received her doctorate in higher education from the George Washington University in 2012. Prior, she attended the University of Pennsylvania for her master’s, and the University of Vermont for her bachelor’s degree—a degree she obtained in three years. Brittany is a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and a member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches.

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Customers find the themes in the book comprehensive and personal. They also appreciate the writing style as clear, empathic, and gentle.

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Customers find the themes in the book comprehensive, inspiring, and personal. They also say it's a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students. Customers also appreciate the brainstorming exercises and writing prompts.

"...was the emphasis on how students can find a meaningful and very personal story in seemingly small every day events, coupled with the very practical..." Read more

"...exercises, and writing prompts - all designed to be the perfect guided experience . It’s a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students!" Read more

"...This book really taught me how to write a concise , personal, meaningful college essay. So glad I found this book!" Read more

"...Not only does it help you write the common app essay , but it teaches you how to write a wide variety of supplemental essays which are just as..." Read more

Customers find the writing style clear, empathic, and gentle. They also say the book is chock full of real essays by real students.

"... It's written so clearly , and with great empathy and the right amount of gentle humor...." Read more

"...It’s a gem of a book, chock full of real essays by real students!" Read more

"... Love the clarity and concision too. I strongly recommend for students and teachers." Read more

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Write More “Indianly,” or Else: Asha Thanki on the Trap of “Authentic” Writing

Considering the publishing industry's problematic ideas about non-american writers.

In 2000, Vikram Chandra wrote for The Boston Review on questions of “ authentic writing .” He spent this essay pushing back against gatekeepers who believed in a particular canon of Indianness and who then labeled other works as pandering to a global or Western (read: white) audience. These gatekeepers pitted regional writers against Indo-Anglian writers, and through this false binary, Chandra argued, these critics did exactly what they claimed Indo-Anglian writers were doing: they reduced the Indian experience.

I never considered authenticity of any kind, and especially not as related to my racial and ethnic identity, as a question for my writing until it was brought directly to me. In a meeting with an early reader, I was advised to write my novel more in the style of Indian writers publishing in English.

My book, apparently, read American; couldn’t I write more “Indianly?” Could I be more subtle with the queer love on the page; wouldn’t an Indian author use more symbolism—the peeling petals of a flower, maybe, or a metaphor about water, to depict this longing?.

But I also knew I couldn’t possibly write Indianly, whatever it meant; my influences have never been only Indian writers. I don’t even know that I would limit my influences to diasporic writers—what a small world we create, if we can only write into a canon.

If it weren’t for this early reader noting my style, the argument of authenticity would have felt silly or outdated to me. I understood the role of the white gaze, the male gaze—the way readers might pick up my book and, because it is about queer brown women, believe it is biographical in nature. I was prepared to counter that bias, that Otherization, but I was not prepared for the question of whether or not my writing was South Asian, or Indian, or anything, enough.

And much as I rejected the criticism, I began to ponder it. Chandra’s twenty-four-year-old argument read to me like a precedent something Jhumpa Lahiri said in a 2015 interview with Francesca Pellas:

To me, writing means freedom, and therefore when I find myself in a cage, in a trap, or in front of someone who tells me “No, you have to write like this, in this language, about these subjects and conditions.” I get a very unpleasant feeling. Of course, one always has to expect to be judged, but some judgments can be damaging.

I think, somewhere within Chandra and Lahiri’s notes on ways of writing, I found my answers and tools around the question of authenticity. It became a game, even as I resisted the critique: What could such a thing as authentic writing mean?

I made it an experiment, to figure out authenticity in a way that only meant something to me. Slowly, the experiment became an exercise in craft.

Let me introduce you briefly to A Thousand Times Before — to Ayukta and the story she shares with her wife, Nadya.

Ayukta doesn’t have a succinct way of explaining to Nadya why she’s hesitant to have children. For Ayukta, this decision is a complicated one. Her family has a fantastic inheritance, passed down for generations, that she has never shared: the ability to access ancestral memory and, through it, immense power. In order to decide if they will have a child, and if they will, who will carry the child, Ayukta must explain the wide-ranging consequences of a lineage with a gift like this one.

A Thousand Times Before is an intergenerational, speculative novel examining girlhood and queerness; familial, ancestral, and romantic love; and the true meaning of home. It is also completely told, an oral history on the page. In this way, it makes the speaker of the novel—its narrator, Ayukta—bear the brunt of authenticity.

In the most reduced sense, my narrator wore a version of my filter—my politics, my knowledge of history—to orient the storyworld. But her precise identity wasn’t meant to be representative—not of myself, not of anyone else. Rather, the opposite: In her specificity, with a particular family history of migration and cultural experience, I knew her identities and experience to be unique to the woman I’d created. As I walked a fine tightrope in the novel, Ayukta maximized my desire for political complication while minimizing my personal discomfort.

When I considered authenticity in a vacuum, away from the drafting process, I wondered why I was trying to meet gatekeepers halfway. V.V. Ganeshananthan said it best:

Some, of course, argue that a diasporic position is inherently inauthentic. You should stay in your lane . But history lays the road of a diasporic person wide and far. My lane winds across oceans. Who is policing my route? Who is one person to declare another authentic, and what is the motive of a person who wishes to run me off the road? Many diasporas are, of course, formed when people seek refuge. To deny diasporas their voices is, in some regard, to practice the politics that drove them to do that in the first place.

If diasporic writing was inherently inauthentic, as the critics seemed to support, I would never meet the minimum threshold.

So I set my own bounds.

First, I did not want to homogenize. Quick-take nonfiction often feels this way to me: mobilize behind the VP because she’s a South Asian #girlboss; watch the latest Never Have I Ever because any and all representation should be lauded.

These stories ignore subgroup privileges as well the differences in experience around caste, religion, class, color, language, dominant historical narratives, and more. It cares more to complain about the airbrushing of a show like Bridgerton , but not of the imperialism, labor, and migration implications of its narrative.

I wanted a narrator who could question their role, and their family’s role, in a specific identity politics and that identity’s history. I wanted them to not place so much stock in what the fantastic element implied about their role—I wanted the gift to feel like an undeserved privilege, to see it as something they shouldn’t use.

A third of the novel, thus, takes places in the early 1970s, against the backdrop of India’s Green Revolution, rise of Marxism, and student movements. The protagonist of this section see power in organizing and in young people effecting change, and less so in fantastic elements. How would this type of person raise her daughter? And how could that daughter’s voice – Ayukta’s voice – shape the novel?

Second, I did not want to nostalgize.

This was hard; I am admittedly a nostalgic person. Yet because of dominant culture representation in the marketplace, I know what is nostalgic to me is also often a homogenizing project, a cultural imperialism. So long as the market prioritizes this particular understanding of nostalgia, I’m feeding into a system that gives me my (dominant) nostalgia over and over.

So I allowed my narrator nostalgia only as grief.

This was easy for me, because my subconscious was already consumed by grief. When I began to draft the novel, in October 2019, my maternal grandmother passed away.

With her went my last direct connection to Partition, as all other grandparents had already passed. She was the only person from that history with whom I had been able to speak as an adult. I had spent time interviewing her about her husband’s migration while I was in college, and her too-soon departure left me stranded in a history I didn’t feel I knew well enough.

Months later, during the pandemic, my maternal grandfather’s brother passed away. He was in his nineties, and was the last person in the family to remember life in Karachi before Pakistan was Pakistan. I began transposing interviews we’d completed in the summer of 2019, when my mother and I sat on his tiled apartment floor in Bombay.

I began to wonder what it would be like for the people I missed to be alive. And so, in fiction, I could do what reality could not. I crafted a narrator Ayukta who could remember the lives of people that came before her. For Ayukta, no one was truly gone; they were housed someplace in her mind, in her bones, and she could access their lives at any time. This was the fantasy I wanted in my grief, and slowly, as I shifted from granddaughter to writer, I found a way to carry onward.

But I also wondered what would happen if I could not move forward—if Ayukta had the choice to not move forward either. I housed this in her central question to Nadya: What do you decide, then? Do you keep the memory of people you grieve alive—how can you possibly decide?

Third, I did not want to write a book that hinged solely on trauma. Nostalgia, historically, is easily hijacked. Traumatic stories, especially intergenerational ones, can focus on cultural inheritance, like patriarchy and gender norms, but fail to critically analyze sources of these issues (purity/virtue systems, class power, and casteism, among others).

Nostalgia, trauma—they can be used like tools to rally some and subjugate others. Trump’s election made this obvious in its “great again” schema, but the tactic was already around long before then.

The Indian Hindu diaspora, in particular, revisits colonization and Partition over and over, blaming India’s history solely on the British without analyzing the role of Islamophobia and Brahminical patriarchy in the evolution of the country afterward. We mourn what we have lost—the nostalgia seeping through—but the trauma narrative begins to paint a picture that skews toward particular politics.

This is how the fascist Bollywood machine functions. And the sheer amount of fiction writing—and especially including fictionalized screenplays through the Bollywood machine—on this topic is a testament to how much of a wound Partition was and continues to be within this particular diaspora’s literary hivemind.

By instilling a narrator who was grounded in the present, I could avoid this. Through Ayukta, the story begins seventy years after Partition; the reader knows that even if the novel begins in 1946, we will care more to carry through time than to linger endlessly on Partition. This narrator would know the impact of historical events on her present, and would be able to track the rise of political parties, Islamophobia, and more.

By placing a contemporary, more progressive lens on the past, Ayukta is able to separate her storytelling from the intense, reactive narration of Partition that her grandmother might have had.

Fourth, and finally, I did not want to mine myself. The market has made this rule the most difficult—it is hard not to bleed for the industry, for a book, in a market that might reward me for doing so.

I considered some of those market expectations when I drafted the contemporary Ayukta-Nadya scenes. For example, despite its potential marketability, I knew I did not want to write out a Western coming-out trope. I knew I did not want my narrator to struggle with Orientalist otherness, or to write the overdone narrative of East-West push-pulls between children and their parents.

I wanted fathers who were more than stern and mothers who were more than silenced. I wanted to show love that felt as real to me as the loves I’ve lived, both familial and romantic, and to show them without metaphor. I wanted a narrative and chronology that was at its core antifascist and which lived within the bounds of my privileged identity locations.

I wanted the question of home without relying solely on the trauma narrative of Partition; I wanted mothers and friendships and ancestral connection, without stereotype.

When Chandra penned his essay on authenticity, he also referenced a speech by Jorge Luis Borges, “The Argentine Writer and Tradition,” which pushed back on the assumption that writers should abide by particular norms to demonstrate their allegiance to a particular regional canon. Chandra agrees with Borges’ critique of the gatekeeping around authenticity, especially when questions around “catering” and “pandering” come into play.

The white gaze, or the white fascination with immigrants’ novels, is not new. But I do think that the preoccupation with white readers, or the desire to create distance from whiteness, means that we criticize details or descriptions that even vaguely gesture towards catering to a dominant identity. I can’t help but think of Chandra’s essay, and of Borges, and of the avoidance of ideological restrictions on writers.

In an interview with Harpers Bazaar , Bangladeshi writer Tanaïs speaks to this :

I’m not translating for whiteness. I don’t do that. But I am translating this for my readers who are not South Asian but are Black, Indigenous people rejecting dominant cultural ways of storytelling. They’re my people, but they’re not people who come from where I come from; they’re coming from a different place. And you have all these young people who have been wanting to hear this truth of our experience in a larger context, a way that doesn’t feel like we’re selling out or whitewashing or erasing ourselves. I’ve been wanting that my whole life, so I had to write it. I had no other choice.

When I think of this translation and its value to my own writing, I think of Ayukta and the person she is, telling a story to a person she loves, and wanting to describe her favorite parts of every moment she re-experiences via ancestral memory. It does not have to be for the white audience. It does not have to suddenly be inauthentic if she must describe the smells, the sights.

I let myself linger in these descriptions—not for the audience, not even for Nadya, but for me.

This was the authenticity I needed: for it to be okay to write this book, first, for myself as its primary audience. The research, the interviews, the photographs and objects I pored over—their discovery was for me, first. The rules became my way of staying true to myself, even as the story became larger than its four-page seedling. Isn’t this what we can do in fiction—clutch at histories we have not lived, at ancestries that have already slipped through our fingers?

As readers begin to read the book for themselves, I find myself feeling freed. In A Thousand Times Before , I have grasped at a language, time, and place that feel both very close and very far away, all at once. And it felt, at the time, like it was authentic to the writer I was.

Even now, I feel myself shifting toward a new experience and way of being. The needle is always adjusting. Ayukta, the text—that is what remains now. Through her voice and in her narration, her story can only be her own.

______________________________

A Thousand Times Before by Asha Thanki is available via Viking.

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The Kidnapping I Can’t Escape

Fifty years ago, my father’s friend was taken at gunpoint on Long Island. Then he went on with his life — and that’s the part that haunts me.

Jack Teich in the driveway of his home in Westchester County, N.Y., in June. Credit... Dina Litovsky for The New York Times

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By Taffy Brodesser-Akner

Taffy Brodesser-Akner is a staff writer for the magazine. The kidnapping that begins her new novel, “Long Island Compromise,” was inspired by the Jack Teich kidnapping in 1974.

• Published July 7, 2024 Updated July 8, 2024

On Nov. 12, 1974, my father’s childhood friend Jack Teich was kidnapped out of his driveway in the nicest part of the nicest part of Long Island. He was arriving home from work at Acme Steel Partition and Door, the steel-fabrication company that his family owned in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. It was 6:40 p.m., and it was raining. He pulled up to the house and killed the engine of his Lincoln coupe but saw that the white exterior of the garage door still glowed even though he had turned his high beams off. He twisted around in the driver’s seat and saw another car in the driveway, its headlights blinding him.

Listen to this article, read by Gabra Zackman

“Excuse me,” a man called. He was now outside the car, but Jack could see him only in silhouette because of how bright the headlights were. “You know how to get to Northern Boulevard?”

Jack stepped out of his car. He was surprised. His street was so far off the commuter path that it would be hard to get lost and end up there looking for Northern Boulevard. In fact, when Jack saw headlights in his rearview mirror as he approached the house that night, he thought how strange and rare it was to be on that same road with anyone.

“Excuse me?” Jack asked.

But now the man was approaching. As he grew closer, Jack saw that he was wearing a ski mask and holding a long-barrel silver pistol. That’s when he also saw a second man, taller, this one holding a shotgun and also wearing a ski mask.

“You’re coming with us,” the first man said. “Get over here or we’re going to blow your head off!”

Jack froze for a moment. He considered running behind the house, into the thicket of trees there, but he thought about his wife, Janet, and his two small sons, 6-year-old Marc and 2-year-old Michael, who were in the house right then, how running might put them in danger.

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